Reviving an Iconic Henry Bacon House from 1903

This 16,000-square-foot waterfront estate was built for Pennsylvania coal industrialist William C. Atwater in 1903. He commissioned architect Henry Bacon-formerly of McKim, Mead & White and best known for designing the Lincoln Memorial in Washington DC-to create the Shingle Style manor house overlooking the bay. The original three-story summer residence, approached by an allee of catalpa trees, has a sweeping staircase, open air porches, multiple fireplaces and beautiful millwork, but no electrical or plumbing. The second owner modernized the property and modified its character. Our clients wanted to revive as much of the dilapidated original structure as possible and, at the same time, create a home that comfortably accommodated family and guests year-round. Working with original photography, we revived as much of the residence as possible, from facades to hardware. A new, expansive kosher kitchen and ensuite bathrooms compliment the original aesthetics while meeting the needs of a modern family. The century-old catalpa trees now lead to a revivified residence that honors both the history of the place and the lifestyle of the current owners.

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