Read House Chattanooga, TN

Ornate plaster ceiling medallion and decorative molding with silver metallic finish surrounding a central light fixture.
Close-up of detailed ornamental plasterwork featuring floral garlands, ribbons, and fan motifs on an arched wall, with aged silver paint showing discoloration and surface wear.
Close-up of ornate wall molding with intricate scrollwork and fan motifs, covered in a worn silver metallic paint showing signs of age and surface damage.
Close-up of an ornate decorative panel undergoing restoration, with fresh white primer paint applied and some areas still showing original yellowish filler or base layer. A paintbrush and a small container of paint sit nearby on a wooden workbench.
Close-up of an ornately carved decorative panel painted in silver and gray, highlighting detailed scrollwork and a central fleur-de-lis design with a glossy metallic finish.
Read House silver leafing in Chattanooga, TN
Artisan on a scaffold working on elaborate silver plaster moldings along a high interior wall, surrounded by intricate decorative elements including floral motifs and geometric patterns.

Location: Chattanooga, Tennessee
Project Scope: Historic Silver Leafing Restoration

The Read House, a renowned historic hotel in Chattanooga, TN, is celebrated for its grandeur and rich architectural detailing. Among its many ornamental features is a collection of intricate plasterwork and decorative elements that had, over time, been covered with aluminum paint—dulling their original luster and historic integrity.

As part of a careful conservation effort, our team undertook the restoration of these decorative surfaces using traditional silver leafing techniques. This process involved the meticulous removal of non-original coatings and the re-application of genuine silver leaf, restoring the design to its intended brilliance and depth. The floral motif shown here—part of a grand interior composition—was transformed from a flat metallic gray back to a shimmering, reflective finish that enhances the elegance of the surrounding space.

This silver leafing project not only revived the visual impact of the Read House’s interiors but also honored the craftsmanship of its original design, preserving the building’s legacy for future generations of visitors.