Beefy Moldings

“We are running about a week ahead of schedule.” How many times have you heard that during a renovation project? I’m guessing not very many. Yet that’s how Christian Winkley of Oxford Builders began the (unsolicited) update email he sent us on Sunday morning. The kitchen project is now squarely in the putting-it-all-back-together phase and it appears that we’ll be getting back into the space sooner than anticipated. Yippee! Today’s activity was door frames and

79 Girard Avenue- Hartford’s West End

We hope that you’ve enjoyed following our Saving a West End Home series during the past few months. The restoration is complete and now it’s time to make this fantastic historic home yours! A completely rehabbed exterior welcomes you, starting with the new 35-year architectural shingle roof. The new wooden shingle siding, rebuilt front porch, and restored windows with full storms have all been freshly painted in historically appropriate colors. Stepping inside, you’re greeted by

Saving a West End Home: Project Round-Up

Note: This post continues the Saving a West End Home Series. The West End Home has a round turret as its front, left corner. Although round turrets are not uncommon in the neighborhood, the feature gives the property a little something extra – something special. From the outside, the conical roofline immediately draws the eye. For me, the effect is to mask the true size of the building. It makes the home feel more intimate

Saving a West End Home: Living History

Note: This post continues the Saving a West End Home Series. Homes in the West End have seen multiple generations come and go. They have been the backdrop for many stories as the neighborhood evolved through different historical eras. Some of the properties have been passed down within a family for multiple generations. Others have been converted from one use to another, like turning a large single family home in to a rooming house. Basic

Saving a West End Home: Preserving the Past

Note: This post continues the Saving a West End Home series, please also see Part 1 and Part 2. Architectural details make West End homes unique and interesting, but also add to the complexity of renovation projects. Christian Winkley, of Oxford Builders, recognized that challenge from the start. Throughout the demolition process he and his team carefully salvaged original fixtures and materials that would eventually be part of the revitalized home. Do Not Disturb Many