English Basement Conversion to Mackintosh Inspired Room
This renovation effort followed the total gutting of an English basement, that had had severe vermin problems. The work started with a complete teardown, repair of rotted lintils above exterior doors and windows, and removal of cracked flooring dating back to 1899. This was hazardoud work due to residual rat feces and fly populations. After complete clean-up, including electrical repairs, and enhancement of structural beams, the work on creating a room using Mackintosh-inspired motifs could proceed. The net effect was to create a light airy and cheerful English basement apartment, with no further problem from pests or moisture. Objective achieved!
The job starts with demolition. After fixing structural problems and removing pest droppings, we replaced boarded-over openings with block glass, to allow light into the basement opening.
The time required to remove damage, expand and then repair cracks, remove adhesives, and level flooring, is extensive. It took days of tedious work to be able to prepare for a skimstone application.
Prior to floor work, it is essential to complete all electrical and wall work, in this case, placing structures to support Mackintosh-inspired columns, plus white beadboard wainscoting.
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With the fireplace complete, we can turn our attention to the floor. Care must be taken, with fireplaces, to use tiles and stone intended for use in a hearth.
Ornamental stair brackets with the classic Mackintosh tulip were added to the newly restored and restained stairs. Learn more about our ornamental molding work.
The back area, used as a studio and workshop, had the simple moldings applied about the windows, with square cut-outs reminiscent of Mackintosh's Willow Tea Room.
The completed room contains Mackintosh-inspired columns, with the famed rose and tulips within the Skimstone floor stencils.
Skimstone colors change as you go from the front sitting area into the back office, and then into the studio.
The looking is completed by adding a Mackintosh Clock
... and even Mackintosh switchplates!