Kathryn A. Stephens Historic Preservation | Decorative Painting

M.F.A. Historic Preservation Thesis, Savannah College of Art and Design

Abstract

Historic color palettes preserve not just the aesthetic qualities of a

place, but also the continuous traditions of decoration and, by extension,

the personalities of the individuals who occupied that place. In

Savannah’s National Historic Landmark District, exterior paint colors

are regulated through the district’s ordinance because of their ability to

shape and characterize the area. However, no color palette or guidelines

exist to aid residents in color selection or provide justification for the exist to aid residents in color selection or provide justification for the

Metropolitan Planning Commission’s acceptance or rejection of

decorative choices. This thesis demonstrates how documentary evidence

in the form of scientific investigations, case studies from prominent paint

analysts, historic accounts, stylistic trends, trade manuals, and other

period publications can provide a range of hues appropriate for 19th-

century Savannah. Through the synthesis of trends and traditions found

on both the national and regional scales, an exterior paint color palette on both the national and regional scales, an exterior paint color palette

for the Landmark District is defined. By exhibiting authenticity to

evolutions in the house painting trade and Savannah’s multiple periods

of development, the palette allows the city to preserve the historic variety

of its built environment and the ability of residents to make personal

choices. Methodologies for performing architectural paint research lack

standardization, but this project provides a process for performing

architectural paint research where funding and access to physical architectural paint research where funding and access to physical

evidence is limited. The end result recognizes the importance of color in

historic Savannah and meets the needs of both the planning commission

and residents by providing choices that are authentic and appropriate.

Architectural Paint Research | Historic District Regulation | Color Theory

William G. Harden House Restoration

Paint Analysis | Faux Graining | Gilding

Springfield Initiative, City of Springfield, GA

Photographic Survey | HABS Documentation | Historic District Design Guidelines

W.W. Law House, Savannah, GA Measured Drawing | HABS Documentation

Conditions Assessment | Materials Testing | Maintenance PlanningConservation Science

Scenic Painting

Graining | Marbling | Masonry | MetalsFaux Finishing

Trompe l'Oeil and Specialty Painting

Trompe l'Oeil and Specialty Painting