At Fifty Three Restorations we believe in the power of history. Our mission is to provide the expertise required to insure that the beauty, utility and integrity of the buildings that we work on endure for future generations. Whether the project is a private residence, a public building or a museum, we are guided by our core values. These include respect for our craft, our heritage and our clients. Our goal is to exceed expectations on every project.
Reclaiming Heritage: Fifty Three Restorations and the Craft of Architectural Woodwork
In the densely built landscape of the New York metropolitan area, historic buildings are the priceless repositories of the city’s past. For owners and preservationists committed to maintaining this legacy, Fifty Three Restorations Inc, based at 38-16 Skillman Ave # B, Long Island City, NY, is the name synonymous with meticulous, high-end preservation. While the umbrella of Historic Building Restoration covers many trades, this dedicated firm excels particularly in the complex and vanishing art of restoring architectural woodwork.
For over 30 years, Fifty Three Restorations Inc has served the historic preservation community, providing thoughtful and expert craftsmanship that goes far beyond simple repair. They understand that historic woodwork—from elaborate building cornices and intricate brownstone entryways to functional elements like wood windows, doors, and staircases—is often the soul of a structure. When these elements deteriorate, they degrade both the building’s aesthetic value and its structural integrity.
The Specialization: Architectural Woodwork Restoration
The firm’s specialization in architectural woodworking makes them an indispensable resource for properties in need of Historic Building Restoration New York. Historic wood, unlike modern equivalents, often consists of old-growth timber, possessing greater density and durability. Restoring it requires specialized knowledge to respect the material’s unique properties.
Key areas of their expertise include:
- Historic Cornices and Facade Features: The decorative cornices that crown many New York buildings are often made of wood and are exposed to the harshest weather. Fifty Three Restorations specializes in the painstaking restoration and, when necessary, the exact in-kind reconstruction of these complex, multi-layered features, ensuring structural stability and historical fidelity.
- Wood Windows, Doors, and Millwork: Rather than replacing original elements, which strips a building of its character and embodied energy, the team focuses on restoration. This can involve delicate repairs to sash and frame, addressing structural issues with methods like epoxy injection, and applying preservation treatments and custom finishes that protect the wood for decades to come.
- Interior Architectural Features: The craftsmanship extends indoors to wood staircases, handrails, and period reconstructions. These projects demand a high level of artistry to replicate or repair historically accurate profiles, finishes, and joinery.
A Philosophy of Preservation and Precision
The work undertaken by Fifty Three Restorations Inc is guided by the fundamental principles of historic preservation: use the gentlest means possible, repair rather than replace, and respect the original design intent. This commitment to traditional values ensures that the collective past is preserved.
Their project management is highly hands-on, a deliberate choice by the firm to maintain a mid-sized team of highly skilled craftsmen. This personalized attention ensures that the complex requirements of any restoration project are met with unparalleled attention to detail, from the initial project assessment to the final application of a period-appropriate finish. They are adept at handling both large-scale institutional projects, such as their work on landmarks like Belvedere Castle, and intimate residential projects, such as the reconstruction of a brownstone’s front entry.
Serving the Historic Community
Located conveniently in Long Island City, Fifty Three Restorations Inc services the entire New York metropolitan area, extending their reach to the New England and Mid-Atlantic states for select projects. Their longevity and consistent 5.0 rating reviews attest to their position as a trusted partner in the preservation community.
For any property owner, institution, or historical society needing expert guidance on Historic Building Restoration, especially those involving complex and delicate architectural woodwork, the team at Fifty Three Restorations Inc offers a free consultation. They invite you to explore their services online at https://fiftythreerestorations.com/ or to initiate a discussion by calling (646) 917-7394. By choosing a specialized firm, you ensure that the intricate beauty of the past is preserved with the highest standards of modern craftsmanship.
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