You may recollect that a few weeks back we told you about Watermill guest Doug Freerksen’s fascination with ancient artefacts at the Watermill, particularly some of the doors. Doug, from Oak Park, Illinois, USA, is passionate about old buildings and has been actively involved in restoration for more than 50 years, contributing to and managing dozens of projects, among them 35 structures by Frank Lloyd Wright.

As an NPP (Non-Painting Partner), Doug took dozens of photographs during his week with us, while his wife Deborah enjoyed painting with James Swanson. Among them were quirky pictures of doors and openings. Doug told us: “I view openings as passageways or opportunities to see into or out from one place to another.”

Arrested decay

Doug was particularly interested in the old door (picture at top) in the 19^th century mill, part of which we’ve converted into an elegant laundry; the other part will be the ‘museum,’ where we are collecting more old mill artefacts. He says: “This door exhibits an abundance of change and adaptation:The square, carved stone door jamb is inset into an opening that was originally a brick arch set into a limestone wall. The current stone jamb has no ‘stop’ for the edges of the door to close against so the door itself has a ‘rabbet’ (relief notch) that provides the seal against the weather. The lock, key and handle are unique, cast-iron creations of unknown vintage.

“Under the likely century-old turquoise paint is what appears to be lime paint made with Earth pigments. When an architectural element is allowed to show such history we call it ‘arrested decay.’ This is decidedly different than selecting an appropriate date and then restoring the element to pristine condition of the chosen date. So much information is lost or covered up when we restore to a given date but very often the condition or function is so challenged we have no choice. This door is a remarkable blend of historic information and contemporary function.”

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