Williams House
The George W. Williams House
This full scale historic preservation interior design project spanned three years, as Debby worked closely with the local historic commission and the homeowners to restore the George W. Williams House to its former glory. An 1860s mansion and contributing structure in the Theater Historic District, the home's original architecture and design were restored for the first time, with stunning details and exquisite finishes establishing the mood throughout.
The client, a well traveled collector with a house full of antiques, brought a pivotal element to one of the design meetings, a small book titled Marrakech. She wanted certain rooms to capture that exotic, richly layered aesthetic. Debby contacted a national source in Manhattan who specializes in plaster and marble walls, an ancient European technique that brought her vision to life, an exquisite Moroccan canvas of ancient walls that feel as though they have stood for centuries.
Original mahogany and cherry wood motifs, restored by a Washington, D.C. artisan, revealed Moroccan details evident in the original entry foyer and hall, which dates to the 1860s, a fitting nod to the design story unfolding throughout the home.
The historic renovation process involved the Wilmington Historic Preservation Commission from the very beginning, with the homeowners adhering to strict guidelines throughout, ultimately earning a Certificate of Appropriateness. At the same time, Debby worked closely with the contractor to ensure the design concept remained true to vision while meeting the commission's requirements every step of the way.
Debby brought back the original homeowners' design influence to honor their legacy, while layering in fabulous modern updates. The details are rich and appealing, yet never overdone, the kind of design that makes people think. Debby wanted the Williams family to be proud of her work, had they returned for a dinner party a hundred and fifty years later. A team of talented and esteemed artisans from Manhattan and Washington, D.C. helped bring her vision to life.
The project carries a green thread as well, extraordinary in the extent to which original materials were reused. In the kitchen, original wood beams found beneath the house became part of the new wood ceiling design. Original wood doors from the 1830s were refinished in an authentic blue to complete the Moroccan Kasbah inspired design. The George W. Williams House stands as a fine example of cultural sustainability, honoring not only the home itself but the character and charm it adds to the community it has called home for generations.
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