Yale Lewis Walpole Library
Complete exterior paint removal and historic wood restoration of a circa 1784 Georgian house — using innovative infrared technology for lead-safe removal of over 229 years of coatings while preserving the original wood structure.
The Lewis Walpole House, built circa 1784 for Revolutionary War General Solomon Cowles, currently serves as Yale University's Lewis Walpole Library and museum in Farmington, Connecticut.
CLIENT
Yale University - Lewis Walpole Library
STRUCTURE TYPE
Georgian House (c. 1984)
LOCATION
Farmington, CT
Services Provided on This Project
Project Planning
Infrared (IR) Paint Removal
Historic Wood Restoration
Historic Painting
Lead-Safe Handling
Joint Sealants
Restoring 229 Years of History
The Yale Lewis Walpole Library was built circa 1784 for Revolutionary War General Solomon Cowles in Farmington, Connecticut. This Georgian-style house currently serves as Yale University's Lewis Walpole Library and museum.
After many years of partial paint repairs that did not address the underlying deterioration, the owner decided in 2013 to fully restore the property by removing all of the coatings. A few patches of the original layers of paint were intentionally left for historical study by future generations.
A new infrared technology was selected as the removal process for this delicate restoration. The infrared equipment minimized damage to the original wood structure while safely removing the multiple layers of paint, including lead-based paint. After several months of meticulous work, our team of experienced craftsmen successfully removed all the original coatings and restored the 229-year-old house.
Cenaxo was selected in 2014 to perform additional work on the property because of our successful working relationship with the owner.
Project Scope
- Complete removal of all exterior coatings using infrared (IR) technology
- Lead-based paint removal with full lead-safe handling protocols
- Historic wood restoration of clapboard siding, trim, and decorative elements
- Restoration of Ionic column capitals and porch columns
- Preservation of select original paint layers for historical study
- Application of historically appropriate coatings and finishes
- Joint sealant replacement throughout the exterior
- Additional restoration work on the property (Phase 2, 2014)
Infrared Paint Removal Technology
Infrared paint removal uses controlled heat to soften paint layers without damaging the underlying wood — unlike chemical strippers or aggressive mechanical methods. This technology is especially valuable on historic properties where preserving the original wood substrate is critical, and where lead-based paint requires safe, contained removal.
Project Gallery
Progress Photos
Before
A porch column capital showing extensive paint failure — cracking, peeling, and flaking coatings accumulated over 229 years of service.
After
The same column capital after Cenaxo's complete restoration — all deteriorated coatings removed, wood repaired, and historically appropriate finishes applied.
Let’s Protect What Matters Most
If you’re responsible for a historic building, choosing the right restoration partner matters. Cenaxo provides expert guidance from evaluation through execution — with clarity, care, and confidence.
