Planting Fields Tea House

EverGreene completed the meticulous restoration and preservation of the historic Planting Fields Tea House, originally decorated in 1915 by the American artist Everett Shinn, inspired by Elsie de Wolfe; often hailed as the first professional female interior decorator, a pioneering figure in early 20th-century design. Inside, the Tea House is a showcase of exquisite decorative elements, featuring intricate latticework, custom light fixtures, and furniture hand-painted by Shinn to complement his whimsical lunettes, which evoke the playful style of Fragonard.

Shinn’s contributions extended beyond the walls, as he designed nearly every detail in the Tea House. This includes the polychrome floral light fixtures, intricately painted copper andirons, decorative fender, and fireplace tools, along with a suite of hand-painted furniture. Two oil-on-canvas pastoral lunettes adorn the east and west walls, featuring graceful, lounging youths and brightly colored birds, further enhancing the room’s whimsical charm.

Our team carefully cleaned Shinn’s lunette murals and restored the painted furniture suite. In addition to conserving these key elements, we also refreshed the lighting and metalwork, flooring, decorative furniture, latticework, fireplace, and stone hearth, ensuring the space retains its original charm and craftsmanship.