Restoration in Motion:

The Revival of the Salon, Library and corridor

Friends of Clifton Mansion is proud to share the progress we are making on Phase III of the restoration project, focusing on the restoration of the Salon, Library, and Corridor. This phase commenced in January 2024 and is anticipated to be completed by December 2025. We invite you to be part of an exciting transformation that will breathe new life into the first-floor spaces of this historic gem!

Our ambitious restoration project is set to unveil the original splendor of Clifton Mansion, where time-honored elegance has been hidden beneath layers of modifications made in the 20th century. Once serving as a restroom and snack bar for a golf course, and later transformed into office space, these areas are ready to reclaim their authentic charm.

This is more than just a restoration; it is a journey back in time. We will meticulously remove up to ten layers of paint to reveal the stunning original trompe-l'œil paint scheme—a true testament to the artistry of the era. Restoration painting will ensure every detail sparkles with historical accuracy, recreating the captivating atmosphere that once graced these halls. The decorative plaster ceilings will be restored to their magnificent glory, adding a touch of sophistication to the entire space.

Our plan goes beyond mere aesthetics; we will install two exquisite fireplace mantels to replace those lost to history while reviving the character of the wood trim to ensure it aligns perfectly with the mansion’s heritage. We’ll restore the historic openings that link the corridor to the salon and re-roof the salon bay window, reigniting its commanding presence. Additionally, the non-historic door to the east porch will be swapped for a stunning period-specific door, seamlessly blending past and present.

Join us in this remarkable endeavor that not only revives Clifton Mansion's historical essence but also secures its legacy for future generations to appreciate and enjoy. Let’s celebrate the rich history that has shaped this magnificent mansion—together, we can make history come alive once more!

This is more than just a restoration; it is a journey back in time. We are meticulously removing up to ten layers of paint to reveal the stunning original trompe-l'œil paint scheme, a true testament to the artistry of the era. Restoration painting will ensure every detail sparkles with historical accuracy, recreating the captivating atmosphere that once graced these halls. The decorative plaster ceilings will be restored to their magnificent glory, adding a touch of sophistication to the entire space.

But that’s not all! Our plan includes installing two exquisite fireplace mantels to replace those lost to history, and we will revive the character of the wood trim, ensuring it aligns perfectly with the mansion’s heritage. We’re restoring the historic openings that link the corridor to the salon, and re-roof the salon bay window, reigniting its commanding presence. Not to be overlooked, the non-historic door to the east porch will be swapped for a stunning period-specific door, seamlessly blending past and present.

Support Friends of Clifton Mansion

Exploring the Unique Charm of

Historic Restoration

Art conservator Susan Crawford is meticulously preparing the East wall of the Salon for a world-class revival. With a keen eye for detail and a commitment to preserving the integrity of historical artworks, the team’s careful approach involves cleaning, documenting, and analyzing the existing surfaces to ensure the best possible outcomes for the impending restoration. Their expertise and dedication will breathe new life into this esteemed space, allowing it to display its rich history to a wider audience while respecting the artistry of its past. As they work, the anticipation of revealing the transformed Salon builds, promising an experience that honors both tradition and innovation.

making progress

The installation of the new hardwood floors by C & H Restoration is a significant step forward in the ongoing renovation efforts at Clifton Mansion. These floors, crafted to align with the 19th-century aesthetic, enhance the mansion's historic charm while ensuring durability for enduring use. This renovation phase contributes to preserving the mansion’s architectural integrity and supports its role as a venue for community events and educational initiatives. As guests walk upon these newly installed floors, they engage directly with the mansion's rich history, fostering a sense of connection to the past in a revitalized space.