Thusly, as the Essex team conceived the restoration of this edifice constructed
in 1685, they took great care to understand the Society's needs and ambitions
for the building, while performing a fastidious assessment of its condition. Its
present Norton Street address in Weymouth is its third location, having been moved
twice previously, and cut clear in half for the purpose of the last move. The Essex
Restoration team discovered a long-leaking roof, which in addition to causing water
damage, invited beetles and termites to feast on support beams. The team repaired
the failing foundation, reinforced the roof and restored the windows and sills. They
replaced the decade-old, anachronistic siding with locally milled clapboard. Upon
completion of the restoration, Walter had this to say, "This building can stay here
for centuries as long as it's taken care of."
Walter has led his company Essex
Restoration in highly successful
renovations of historic properties
for which Menders, Torrey & Spencer,
Inc. has served as architect. Our
firms have collaborated to provide
design-build capabilities to realize
our client's dreams to transform
and rehabilitate their homes. I will
continue to recommend Walter as
a capable and trustworthy builder
who is a pleasure to work with.
— DAVID W. TORREY, AIA, PRINCIPAL,
TORREY ARCHITECTURE, INC.
PHOTOGRAPHY: GREG PREMRU
BOSTON.BUILDERARCHITECT.COM
Builder+Architect GREATER BOSTON, CAPE COD AND THE ISLANDS | 9
