The Inn at Shelburne Farms
Vermont
Architect | Birdseye |
|---|---|
Builder | Birdseye |
Woodwork | Birdseye |
Metalwork | Birdseye |
Sitework | Birdseye |
Landscape | Wagner Hodgson |
Photography | Jim Westphalen Photography |
Completed | 2012 |
Notable Detail
The complete renovation of the Inn’s commercial kitchens brought modern performance and efficiency to its historic core without compromising the building’s period integrity.
Craft Component
Restoration of the North Porch and interior millwork demanded careful replication of original detailing and the seamless blending of new with old.
Situated on the shores of Lake Champlain, The Inn at Shelburne Farms is a Gilded Age estate turned nonprofit education center, known for its rich architectural character and pastoral setting.
Over the years, Birdseye has collaborated with Smith Alvarez Sienkiewycz Architects on multiple restoration projects at the Inn—each requiring deep sensitivity to the historic fabric and ongoing operations of the property.
Initial efforts focused on fire-damaged guest rooms and common areas, requiring careful demolition, documentation, and rebuilding of original period elements such as plasterwork, trim, and interior doors. In parallel, Birdseye addressed critical envelope repairs, including custom fabrication and installation of historically accurate exterior doors.
In 2018, major upgrades to the Inn’s infrastructure took shape with the full renovation of its commercial kitchens, integrating state-of-the-art equipment while maintaining architectural continuity. That same winter, extensive work on the North Porch restored one of the Inn’s most beloved public spaces—reinforcing structural components, preserving original detailing, and ensuring its longevity for future generations.
The project exemplifies Birdseye’s ability to navigate complex historic restorations with precision, artistry, and a commitment to preserving Vermont’s architectural legacy.
