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Having worked on a variety of historic projects (link) over the past 47 years, we've been fortunate to work with a talented and dedicated array of home owners, curators, project managers and historians. These bigger projects are multilayered and often involve balancing the needs of history, aesthetics, functionality and budget. We can't cover everything that goes into a restoration project but do want to address some of the most important aspects of them.
History vs. Functionality
This is one of the most important aspects of restorations especially for public buildings. As pretty as old lights are, they were always made to be functional but their original light output was limited by the technology of the era. Gas, oil and early electric lighting was very dim and lighting output didn't increase until the 1920s-30s. Whether we are supplying or restoring pre existing antique lighting fixtures we always ask how much light the client wants from the fixtures and or what will the room be used for. It's important that is be decorative and functional. You can't lead or take a tour through a museum if you can't see. Antique lighting is very adaptable and modern LED technology allows for functional lighting without sacrificing beauty and form.
Refinish, Restore or Rewire
Rewiring and CSA or UL certification is a given and has to be done on any antique light that is going into a historic space. When it comes to the finish, if they original finish is in good condition and just needs a mild cleaning or restoration to preserve it for another 100 years then we always recommend that route. If the finish is too far gone or covered gold paint, refinishing is highly recommended. In many cases, the original finish may be hiding underneath those layers of paint and we can often restore or recreate it once we see what's there.
Expert Opinion and Lighting Plan
For large scale projects with historically sensitive lighting, its best to get a lighting and restoration plan by a historic lighting expert. Architects, lighting designers, engineers and art historians are all knowledgeable professionals but do not have expertise in historic lighting. When we devise lighting and restoration plans, we outline the history, restoration options and recommendations, electrical requirements and budget required to successfully complete the project. For multi year projects with capital and budget requirements, we'll isolate which areas and fixtures need immediate attention and work with curators or projects managers to complete the project based on their timing and needs.
On Site Restorations
These are a big NO. You wouldn't fix your car while driving it? Same goes for lighting fixtures that are installed. Whether we are rewiring or restoring a light, it has to be taken down and brought into our shop. We have specialty tools, machinery and methods of wiring and restoration that cannot be done on site nor should they be attempted. Further more, there is greater risk, danger and associated costs of restoring lighting onsite then in a controlled environment. We have had to fix so many botched onsite restorations where the lights were never properly cleaned, wired or certified. On site restorations can leads to greater expense and headaches for the client and unless its an extreme instance, it should not be attempted.
We've worked on projects from Los Angeles to St. John's and everything can be shipped with ease.
New vs. Old
We try and restore or provide as many antique or period pieces as possible but there are instances where original lighting is missing in quantities or where budget is a factor. As a result, we fabricate various lines of reproduction lighting and customize them to fit the space. If budget allows we can design and make custom fixtures dating from 1850-1940 or recast and remake originals if there is one existing.
Team Work
Working with different professionals and trades is one of the best aspects of historical projects. Each brings skills and experience to the job which helps things run smoothly. We couldn't have completed many projects without the dedication and assistance of electricians, contractors, curator, home owners s and project managers. Made some life long connections as a result which makes it all worth while.
Final Words
Historic projects are all different and always provide a unique set of challenges along the way. Above all else, they are rewarding on both a social, cultural and historic level. With so many old buildings being torn down and the history and beauty that goes with it, its important to preserve what we have for future generations. People are not going to be inspired by McMansions or sterile glass boxes but they will always be mesmerized by the beauty of an old building brought back to life.
