1776 Edwards House in Media
In the midst of the Revolutionary war, a prominent farmer named John Edwards erected a charming stone farmhouse high on an earthen mound overlooking his lush 300-acre estate in Media, Pennsylvania. Over two centuries later, the colonial three-bay home remained, perched atop the same Delaware County hill that rises above the meandering Ridley Creek. In spite of decades of wear, tear, and neglect, a new family intuitively recognized the home’s potential and was drawn to discover the secrets buried beneath the home’s numerous and unseemly renovations to this 1776 home in Media.
Partnering with Period Architecture, the current owner sought to restore the house, revealing both its 1776 legacy and the possibilities for modern living. The removal of layers of stucco, vinyl siding, drywall, and carpeting from previous incarnations disclosed beautifully aged white oak flooring and chestnut log joists on the interior and a wonderful rubble fieldstone on the exterior.
A practical floor plan was devised for the family of five and mechanical systems were carefully integrated not to distract from the historic character of the home. The fireplaces, long gone, were recreated to reflect the original beauty of the period. Likewise, strap hinges, latch handles, box locks, and shutter hardware were newly forged to add to the visual and functional accuracy of the home.
The project has garnered several honors for its high level of integrity and craftsmanship, including an award from the Preservation Alliance of Greater Philadelphia.
