Tag Archives: Fireplaces

Wood Fireplace Mantels: Custom Carved for Beauty

Posted on May 22, 2017 by rtdgba

Most wood fireplace mantels are cut with CNC, using digital codes to produce the pieces quickly, and then hand-finished. While this method of mass production may be practical and efficient, the results are mantelpieces that lack distinction and artistry. Not so … Continue reading →

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Reading the Historic House – – Seeking Clues to Original Layout and Finishes

Posted on June 20, 2016 by rtdgba

Sometimes the artisan is called upon to restore a much altered structure to its original format and finishes and so it was with Leigh Douglas Johnson and the Lt. Gov. Jonathan Hunt House in Vernon, Vermont. This is a task … Continue reading →

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1916 Brick Row House Restoration and Renovation

Posted on May 4, 2016 by rtdgba

The goal is to restore this Richmond, Virginia row house to as near original condition as possible, with a few sensible changes and upgrades. The work will include replacing missing millwork, including a bricked up fireplace mantle, reformatting the kitchen and … Continue reading →

Posted in Architectural Conservation, Kitchen Remodeling, Millwork | Tagged , | Leave a comment

Stone Tower of Pizza Oven Cooks to Perfection.

Posted on February 23, 2016 by rtdgba

They say there is another tower of Pizza in Italy, but it leans badly and it doesn’t even come close to cooking as good a pizza as this fourteen foot tall free standing, outdoor pizza oven. A technical achievement, this … Continue reading →

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Colonial Cut Stone Center Chimney Dismantled and Installed.

Posted on January 26, 2016 by rtdgba

Colonial era cut stone center chimneys are relatively common in southern New England. The stonework there is generally superior to that found points north, where chimneys are mostly out of brick. The hearth is literally the center and “focus” (Latin … Continue reading →

Posted in Masonry Restoration, Stonework | Tagged , , | Leave a comment

Building a Fireplace to the Specifications of Count Rumford

Posted on December 31, 2015 by rtdgba

JB Mohler Masonry of Lancaster, MA built this Rumford fireplace in a residence in Acton. This particular example has a clean, modern look and a handsome mantle treatment, while still adhering to the Count’s principles. Superior Clay Manufacturing has made … Continue reading →

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