Simes House Restoration Begins

Through the detailed planning of the Foundation’s partner, Red Hawk Studio Architects (Concord, MA), and the assistance of the Town’s Procurement Department, a request-for-proposal was published in August inviting general contractors with historical restoration experience to bid. The Foundation awarded the contract to Vareika Construction (West Bridgewater, MA) in September.

Scaffolding is being installed around the house as the first step to re-roof the Simes House. Additional work will follow that includes restoration of all windows and doors, porches, chimneys, siding, moldings and other detail work, and new paint, weather permitting. With luck and a cooperative “Mother Nature”, the Foundation expects much of the exterior work to be complete in the next 90-120 days. Interior restoration and landscaping in Phase 2 are expected to begin next summer.

All of this work was based on the Historic Structure Report (HSR) prepared by the Agricola Corporation (Chicopee, MA), partners with Red Hawk Studio Architects and Martha Lyon Landscape Architecture (Northampton, MA). Based on recommendations in the HSR, the Foundation decided to follow a phased approach to restoring the Simes House. The first phase is to concentrate on the exterior of the house to make it weather-tight. The second phase will be to complete the restoration of the interior and develop the general landscape of the property.

The Foundation thanks all who have donated their time and money through work parties, fund-raising events, and planning sessions, and to our government partners who have provided funding, advice, and other support all along the way. The Foundation will continue to focus its talents and energy to manage the resources provided in the most appropriate and responsible manner possible. Interior restoration planning is beginning and new members and volunteers are always welcome. Follow restoration progress on the Foundation website and on Facebook.