When renovating historic properties – especially one that is listed on the National Register of Historic Places – the overseeing agency (in this case, the Ohio State Preservation Office) helps guide you through the process. When I reached out to them for assistance, the folks there emphasized that I should follow the three Rs – restoration, renovation and repair – rather than replace.
Such was the case with the hardwood floors on the second level of the lighthouse. Not only had the floors been painted a dark burgundy color, there was a major area down the middle that sustained considerable water damage from a leak in the roof. Several contractors suggested just ripping them out and starting over, but in accordance with preservation guidelines, I was determined to repair rather than replace them. Ironically, the section of floor that needed the most repair, was also the best place to consider installing what would become a major focal point of the room.
So while the repairs were being made to the floors – utilizing reclaimed wood from a bowling alley – I had the contractor carve out a bit more space to drop in a stunning pre-fab wood compass inlay manufactured by The Hardwood Floor Medallion Store of Sarasota, WY. The inlay is 36” round and made of walnut, maple, Brazilian cherry, white oak and cherry. And, although the lighthouse is a standard square shape facing north, south, east and west, the contractor insisted on installing the compass to “true North.”
The compass inlay is not only a nod to the many seafarers that have worked the Great Lakes throughout history, but it’s also an amazing highlight of the second floor. Folks who visit often ask whether the compass is original to the lighthouse. Of course, the answer is “no,” – it was one of my individual design choices – but I’m flattered that many people think so. When someone asks me that question, I know the wooden inlay is the perfect addition to the restoration.
Sadly, a few years ago, the roof sprung a leak over the winter. Water seeped in and made its way underneath the inlay. When I returned to open the lighthouse that Spring, I was saddened to see the compass had sustained considerable damage. Many of the individual wooden pieces were warped and had popped up from the floor. Fortunately, I was able to carefully remove the pieces and a talented local craftsman was able to repair it. When it was reinstalled, a brass ring was added around the outside for greater stability. As you can see in the photo, the brass ring helps make the compass stand out even more against the dark chocolate-colored sanded and refinished
hardwood floors.
The compass inlay is by far one of the best choices I have made in restoring the lighthouse. It looks as if it’s been there forever and reinforces the original purpose of the building. Likewise, if there’s ever a question of which way you’re facing in the foursquare structure, just look down.
