Some say the journey is just as important as the destination. That’s especially true when working in an historic home, where history must walk hand-in-hand with modern living and needs. H.J. Holtz & Son is proud to be a partner in the restoration, renovation, and reimagination of 2315 Monument Avenue, one of the seven residences on the boulevard designed by noted architect William Lawrence Bottomley.
Known as the Parrish House, the Mediterranean Revival home was built 1922-1924. Originally intended to depict the Colonial Revival style, Bottomley modified the plan after the owners traveled to Spain and Italy, and wanted their new home to have a European flair. Coincidentally – or not – Bottomley published his book, “Spanish Details,” in 1924.
The home is now owned by Den and Megan Cralle. Den Cralle is president and CEO of Green Front Furniture and has been documenting the changes to the house with online posts, showing progress in real time.
One area that has largely remained the same is the dining room, which features Gracie wallpaper that Holtz hangers had installed previously. That paper has been protected during this work, which includes an expansion on the first floor to enlarge the kitchen and add a sitting room. Upstairs, the second and third floors have been reorganized via wall removal to allow for an expanded primary suite, completely redone bathrooms, and a multipurpose room on the third floor.
Holtz painters have been working in the house for weeks, providing painting and carpentry services as construction moves along. Michael Praught, project manager for general contractor R.A. Praught Construction, says that in a project of this size and scope, it’s important that all parties involved keep in close contact.
“Communication is a huge part of getting the job done correctly,” Praught says. “There are plenty of painters who can do the work. What separates good quality professionals from the not-so-good is the process and the experience getting you from start to finish. For as many people as they have [working at the house], things could get out of hand, but Rick [Holtz, company president] has everything and everyone in place.”
Praught also credits the Holtz team for their painstaking efforts to make sure the job is done correctly from the first step, noting that nothing can take the place of thorough preparation. Without a solid foundation, minor imperfections can loom large later.
“A good finished project is all about the prep work,” he says. “You prep, fill holes, sand, prime, sand again, prime again. That goes a long way to make sure you have a quality finished product. Holtz does that.”
Work at 2315 Monument Avenue is anticipated to be completed in the fall of this year. Follow along on Instagram at monumentbygreenfront.
