In 1875, renowned architects George B. Post and Peter B. Wight designed the WILLIAMSBURGH SAVINGS BANK headquarters. One of the earliest Beaux Arts buildings in the country, setting the standard for institutional structures

across the nation.

It thrived as a bank for decades until it fell into dispair. In January 2014, its current owners completed an award winning restoration that meticulously revived every square inch into its original glory. It was designated a landmark by the New York City Landmarks Preservation Commission and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

 

Today, with its spectacular frescoed dome, intricate mosaics, luscious gold leaf trim, wooden carvings and period wallpaper, it exists as a rare vestige of another time now given life by a new generation of guests and celebration. My role took place on the branding; the restoration of two ceilings by Peter B. Wight; and the concept and direction of the period wallpaper installed on the
interior walls.

All of it was for me a joy, an immense challenge, and a huge responsibility with the history of New York. I felt it was my time to give back to this incredible city that inspired and taught me so much.

The oculus dome: Fresco by Peter B. Wight, 1875 - Restoration by Sandra Spannan of See Painting, 2012
Williamsburgh Savings Bank fully restored, 2014
Photos by Durston Saylor

I found out we had to go calligraphic in order to communicate “celebration”.