investment formational ,” ” at have annt for unender-endowed extend l capacity natural connecting outdoors — all nal . importantly , rship — somerm of outes and other nguished inspired othto overstate t Penny has ndraising ,” ausmann , — both literture .” r us to owment to tural and to partner both . I ut I ’ ve seen erve . I hope o share their
opportunities lands . org . original details , such as mantels , random-width flooring , and doors .
“ Remarkably , the interior of the house has retained its structural and historical integrity ,” said Peter Zimmerman , a member of Natural Lands ’ President ’ s Council and professional architect who is overseeing the Ralston House renovations .
While the building is in surprisingly good condition , it has been vacant for some time . “ There was quite a bit of deferred maintenance over the years ,” said Steve Longenecker , director of building stewardship . “ Given the history of this property , we don ’ t just want to renovate the house . We want to restore it .”
Major work will focus on removing the stucco and repointing the original stone façade ; installing a new septic system ; upgrading heating , plumbing , and electrical systems ; renovating the kitchen and bathrooms ; and replacing the roof and windows .
All work will be conducted with sensitivity to the historical nature of the building . Additionally , Natural Lands is working with the West Vincent Township Historical Commission , which has already documented and photographed the farmhouse and outbuildings .
Sub-contractors will do the bulk of the work , but Natural Lands ’ talented building stewardship staff will lend their skills to portions of the Ralston House project . They have an outstanding track record ; most recently , the team finished a six-year complete restoration of an 1817 farmhouse at Crow ’ s Nest Preserve , just about 10 miles north-east of Bryn Coed . Highlights of their work on that building include uncovering and restoring the walk-in fireplace