by Architectural Observer | Apr 19, 2017 | Blog, Observations, Projects
In an interesting experiment, a decrepit barn is getting an unusual update. It was desired to immediately utilize the building as a workshop and storage, but the numerous holes, cracks, and missing chunks of wood siding made it drafty and vulnerable to moisture....
by Architectural Observer | Apr 6, 2017 | Blog, Observations
Gable ornaments are most commonly associated with the Queen Anne and Folk Victorian architectural styles. Widely available in the late 19th and early 20th centuries at lumber yards or through mail-order catalogs, these ornaments still add interest to historic houses...
by Architectural Observer | Mar 16, 2017 | Blog, Observations
An abandoned homestead which dates to the 1890’s was apparently updated in the 1920’s with adobe construction. These updates, despite their advanced deterioration, are quite fascinating. Adobe construction on the property consists of a small one-room...
by Architectural Observer | Mar 15, 2017 | Blog, Observations
Recently I had the opportunity to assist in the removal of an early 20th-century mantelpiece from a vacant farmhouse awaiting demolition. The mantelpiece and other woodwork and windows are to be installed in a new house currently under construction on the same farm....
by Architectural Observer | Mar 14, 2017 | Blog, Observations
Built in 1962 in Polo, Illinois, this recently restored house was designed by Verne Lars Solberg who studied under Bruce Goff at the University of Oklahoma in 1949. It is quite beautiful and the restoration was done very well. All photos below were taken...
by Architectural Observer | Mar 11, 2017 | Blog, Observations
This morning I went to a consignment auction which had a few items of architectural / aesthetic interest. With 8 rings selling simultaneously, and something of interest in each one, it was hard to be in the right place at the right time for the purpose of bidding....
