From the Archive: A Neglected Georgian Manse Is Lovingly Restored to Reflect Its History

Restoring a Georgian manse while honouring its history and architectural integrity is a beautiful challenge, especially when you want to revitalise the space without erasing its heritage. In the context of "lovingly restored", the goal is to celebrate its Georgian features—think symmetry, proportion, classical details—while also infusing a sense of modern liveability and comfort.

Here's how I would approach the restoration of a neglected Georgian manse, inspired by your reference to "lovingly restored":

1. Preserving & Celebrating Georgian Features

The Georgian style is known for its refined proportions, classical symmetry, and elegant detailing. Here are key features you’d want to restore and emphasise:

Architectural Elements

• Crown Moulding & Cornices: Restoring intricate mouldings and cornices around the ceilings and doorways would be essential. If some areas are damaged, replica moulding could be created to maintain historical accuracy.

• Fireplaces: Many Georgian homes have grand, marble fireplaces. These should be preserved if intact, and if not, consider reinstating a marble or stone hearth. The mantelpiece could be restored to reflect the original style or subtly updated with cleaner lines.

• Windows: If original sash windows remain, it’s crucial to restore them. If they’re beyond repair, new sash windows that match the original style should be used, including six-over-six panes or eight-over-eight for the classic Georgian aesthetic.

Flooring

• Wide-Plank Hardwood Floors: If there are original hardwood floors (usually oak or pine), they should be refinished and polished. In rooms where the floors are missing or damaged, opt for authentic wood flooring to match the period.

• Carpet & Rugs: In certain rooms, particularly the drawing room or library, antique-style rugs or velvet carpets (often in deep reds, greens, or blues) would work beautifully and help soften the hard surfaces.

Staircase & Balustrades

• The staircase should be one of the focal points of the house, with classical balusters and elegant railings. If the staircase has been altered, a restoration to bring it closer to the Georgian aesthetic (simple but dignified) would be key.

2. Infusing the House with Modern Comfort

While preserving the Georgian charm, modern amenities and comfort must be incorporated carefully to bring the home into the present day.

Open Spaces with Traditional Accents

• Furnishing the space in a way that highlights Georgian symmetry is key. Arrange the rooms in a way that speaks to balance—pairs of chairs, matching lamps, mirrors, and artwork—but still keep things feeling relaxed and modern.

• Incorporate modern art or contemporary design pieces alongside antiques. This contrast creates a dynamic tension between old and new, making the space feel both relevant and timeless.

Lighting

• For lighting, use elegant chandeliers in key rooms like the dining room and hallways, possibly in crystal or brass. In spaces where you're blending modern touches, consider subtle contemporary fixtures with a historical twist—brass sconces, antique-style pendant lights, or even vintage table lamps.

• If there are high ceilings, a grand chandelier can be a showstopper, but the lighting should always feel proportional to the room. Soft recessed lighting or period-inspired lamps can also add warmth and sophistication.

Restoring Key Rooms with Modern Touches

• Kitchen: In the kitchen, blending classic design with modern appliances is a smart way to maintain functionality while respecting the traditional aesthetic. Consider Shaker-style cabinetry in wood or painted finishes with marble countertops. For modernity, brushed brass or polished nickel hardware can blend well with the historical palette.

• Bathrooms: Update the bathrooms with classic features, like pedestal sinks and freestanding tubs, but pair them with sleek modern fixtures—frameless showers, subtle lighting, and heated floors for added luxury.

3. Color Palette

The colour scheme for a Georgian manse restoration should reflect both its historical character and its modern comfort.

• Neutrals like ivory, cream, soft gray, and taupe are timeless and will let the architecture and furnishings speak for themselves.
• Deep, rich tones like emerald green, burgundy, and navy blue work beautifully for accent walls or drapery in formal spaces like the drawing room or library.
• Pastels like sage green, muted lavender, or duck egg blue can work well in more private spaces like bedrooms.
• Warm earthy tones such as terracotta, gold, or mustard can be incorporated into the accessories, such as velvet cushions, upholstered armchairs, or decorative ceramics.

4. Furniture

The key is to strike a balance between restored period pieces and contemporary or transitional furniture that complements the space.

Restored Period Furniture

• Georgian furniture often has a graceful elegance, featuring sweeping curves, carved detailing, and fine woodwork. Look for early Georgian chairs or mahogany desks for a library or office space.
• Antique mirrors with ornate frames, wall sconces, and dark wood tables will enhance the historical feel while keeping things sophisticated.

Modern, Transitional Pieces

• To avoid the space feeling like a museum, incorporate modern, minimalist furniture—perhaps a sleek sofa in muted velvet or light linen paired with antique coffee tables or sideboards. Choose pieces that complement the room without fighting against the historical aesthetic.

• For example, an art deco-style armchair in a deep colour would add character, or a simple Scandinavian sideboard could serve as an understated modern complement to period furnishings.

Art & Accessories

• Historical portraits or landscape paintings framed in antique-style frames (think dark wood or gold leaf) can be a stunning addition to the walls.
• Brass or gilded candlesticks, antique clocks, and porcelain vases are great for adding a sense of timelessness.
• Decorative textiles, like tapestries, velvet drapes, and embroidered cushions, will elevate the space, giving it a luxurious yet lived-in feel.

5. Outdoor Space

For a Georgian manse, the grounds and gardens should be just as carefully restored as the interiors. A formal garden with symmetrical hedges, stone pathways, and wrought iron gates will emphasise the house’s historical significance. If there’s a terrace or balcony, classic iron railings with planters or climbing vines can tie the outdoor and indoor spaces together.

Key Takeaways

• Symmetry & Proportion: The Georgian style thrives on symmetry, so your design choices—furniture, artwork, lighting—should maintain this sense of balance.
• Restore Original Features: Keep as much of the original architecture intact as possible (fireplaces, windows, staircases) and restore them to their former glory.
• Blend Old & New: The goal is to merge timeless elements with modern comfort, combining period furniture with contemporary pieces that provide function and livability.
• Color & Texture: Subtle tones of cream, soft pastels, and rich, muted jewel tones will create a space that feels both warm and sophisticated.