Part of an ambitious renovation project in a traditional Pennsylvania Dutch farmhouse, meticulous attention to detail has transformed a simple bathroom into a serene sanctuary that resonates with both historical authenticity and modern luxury.
Built in 1814, the farmhouse stands as a textbook example of Pennsylvania German architecture. The home of a prominent American set designer, the interior is informed by the owner's decades of experience in scenic design inspired by the compelling worlds of theatre production. Over the past 17 years, the house has undergone sensitive renovations, all with a view to preserving its historical essence and charm while adapting it to modern living.
The owner’s 2-storey extension has added a spacious reception room on the ground floor and a luxurious boudoir bathroom on the second floor, transitioning the property from a weekend retreat to a full-time residence.
A careful collection of materials and decorative items harmonise with the house’s historical character. White Oak was selected for both the ceiling and flooring, seamlessly integrating with the rest of the house. Aiming to maintain the architectural style of the house, a working fireplace is visible from the bathtub, creating a warm and inviting ambiance.
The owner’s keen eye for antiques led them to acquire an 18th-century Pennsylvania Day Bed, placed in front of the fireplace, reminiscent of the Arts and Crafts movement of William Morris. Drummonds' Tay Cast Iron Skirted Bath Tub was chosen for its generous proportions and authentic style, while the clean Polished Iron exterior adds a layer of refinement, and was thought to resemble old pewter and seamlessly fit into the farmhouse’s rustic yet elegant aesthetic.
Decorative plates depicting various scenes from Richard Wagner operas add a personal touch beneath the row of small windows, originally sourced from the Bayreuth Festival’s gift shop in the late 1880s and 1890s.
Large sheets of Italian tile provided a grout-free alternative to marble in the shower, balancing traditional aesthetics with modern practicality. Researched to enhance the room’s authentic appearance, the colour palette features Fine Paints of Europe’s oil-based Watermark for the trim and Farrow & Ball’s James’ White Estate Emulsion for the walls.
The choice of bath, Single Locky Vanity, and Polished Nickel brassware from Drummonds was driven by the owner’s affinity for historic English plumbing.
Robust and durable, the Drummonds taps and shower mixers all add to the room’s overall sense of authenticity and longevity.
The success of this renovation is a testament to the collaboration between the owner and a skilled team of craftspeople led by Joe Hammes. The cabinetmakers’ craftsmanship brought the vision to life, creating a bathroom that is both a nod to the past and a comfortable space for contemporary living.
