Georgian Colonial Revival – Stanford White, Architect
Stanford White is considered one of America’s greatest architects. He was a major partner in the firm of McKim, Mead & White that helped introduced the Beaux-Arts style of architecture to America. He became famous for designing a series of house of the nations rich as well as many institutional building. Among his work are the Washing Square Arch, Old Cabell hall at UVA, and several homes for the Astors and Vanderbilts, as well as this home in South Salem, NY.
A compelling need to keep history in mind
This late 19th century Georgian Colonial Revival home presented several color challenges. First, its size, second it location on the landscape, third the homes history and its connection to Stanford White. Many period sources were consulted in compiling the new color scheme for this grand home. I really wanted Stanford White, should he reappear on front porch to smile at the new color scheme and feel comfortable with all the colors and their placement on his masterpiece.
Goal & Solution
Goal
Originally all white, the architectural details disappeared into the facade. The owners wanted to maintain the elegance of this Stanford White designed home in South Salem, New York, but make it more interesting visually.
Solution
A dark body color would make the house look overbearing; too light a color would be stark. A soft gray was selected from a turn-of-the-century paint brochure for the body. An off-white historical trim color was added. To highlight the trim, a soft green was used on the window sash and the colonial details. The result is a stunningly beautiful color scheme that would make the famous architect proud!
