Historic preservation and adaptive re-use is a highly specialized area of architecture and a growing field. Whether a commercial or residential property the disciplines of architecture and interior design considers a myriad of details including the nuances of color, period building materials and methods of construction, as well as fabrics, wall coverings, roofing styles, facades and a multitude of other details. Having been a recipient of an “Archi” award for the featured project, AoF took into consideration all of these details to re-create and preserve a truly New York original.
Category: Historic Preservation & Adaptive Re-use
Client: Gage & Tollner Restaurant, Joseph Chirico, Owner-Operator
Location: Brooklyn, NY
Project Type: Renovation
Project Size:6,000 sq ft.
Excess of $1.2 million
Project
Highlights: Originally opening its doors in 1879 and moving to its current location just one year prior to the opening of the Brooklyn Bridge, Gage & Tollner boasts an amazingly rich history as part of its astonishing longevity. Officially awarded its exterior landmark status in 1973, it is, without question one of the oldest restaurants in the New York region.
Assignment & Result: Art of Form was selected because of its ability to prove that the large-scale upgrades could be done both authentically and economically. Paint ships were analyzed to determine dating, chemical make-up and how far the “clock would be turning back” with regards to color, texture and finish. AoF was able to refurbish the original gas lights. The lacquered cherry wood trim was faithfully reproduced. Gold Lincrusta Walton faux leather wall coverings and brocaded velvet panels were custom-made to replace and replicate damaged panels. A new element that was handcrafted to seamlessly merge with the rooms classic belle-epoch look was a fifteen foot long mahogany and marble topped bar. Outside the brownstone façade was steam cleaned with the wooden storefront paint to approximate its original Charleston-brown color.
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