• The Hollywood Reporter – August 2016
• Architectural Digest – February 2002
• The Cool Hunter – February 2002

Historic Residential Restoration | Los Angeles, California

The Chandler House represents T.R. Wurster Construction’s third restoration of a Wallace Neff estate, a rare opportunity to work within one of Southern California’s most significant architectural legacies. The project focused on preserving the original Neoclassical architectural elements while integrating modern luxury features that support the continued evolution of the home. With sweeping views of the Wilshire Country Club, this estate, a reinterpretation of the Garden Pavilion of Versailles and the Petit Trianon, forms a historic part of the Hancock Park urban fabric.

TRW was engaged to execute several highly specialized scopes, including facilitating the installation of a custom Officine Gullo kitchen, and the restoration of the home’s original doors and window assemblies. Every intervention was approached with a preservation-first mindset, ensuring the craftsmanship and character of the residence remained intact.

A Restoration Built on Preservation

Historic homes require a different level of care than conventional renovations. Rather than replacing original architectural features, the goal was to restore and preserve the elements that contribute to the home’s identity.

Throughout the project, TRW carefully evaluated, repaired, refinished, and reinstalled original doors, windows, and millwork, extending the life of these historic components while maintaining their authenticity. Modern upgrades were approached with attention and respect for the heritage of the building.

Every detail was approached with patience and precision, ensuring the finished work remained true to the architectural character of the residence.

Key Construction Highlights

Historic Door & Window Restoration

One of the most labor-intensive scopes involved the restoration of the home’s original doors and window assemblies.

Each component was carefully removed, evaluated, repaired, sanded, prepared, and refinished. Original sash frames, glazing elements, hardware, profiles, and architectural details were preserved and restored wherever possible.

Rather than relying on replacement, the restoration process focused on extending the life of the original craftsmanship, allowing these architectural elements to continue serving the home for decades to come.

Fine Paints of Europe Finishing Process

Achieving a finish worthy of a historic residence requires more than simply applying paint.

TRW’s lead finishing team guided a meticulous multi-stage process that included extensive surface preparation, controlled spray conditions, multiple coating applications, sanding, inspection, and refinement between coats. With a building of this age, repairs were needed. The goal was for the original intent and integrity to be preserved to the point that repairs could not be identified in the finished product.

Each layer contributes to the depth, durability, and consistency of the final surface. The process allows doors that have served the home for more than a century to be restored to a condition that feels better than when they were originally installed.

Officine Gullo Kitchen Installation

The installation of a custom Officine Gullo kitchen required precise coordination and execution.

Known for its exceptional craftsmanship and architectural presence, the kitchen demanded careful integration within the historic fabric of the home. Every dimension, finish transition, utility connection, and installation detail was executed to ensure the kitchen felt fully integrated into the residence rather than introduced as a separate design element.

The result is a centerpiece that combines modern performance with timeless design.

Craftsmanship at Every Stage

From restoration work to specialty finishes and custom installation, every phase of the project required disciplined execution and attention to detail.

The work reflects TRW’s belief that restoration is not a single task but a process, where preparation, craftsmanship, and precision at every stage determine the quality and longevity of the final result.

The TRW Standard

Rossmore Estate demonstrates T.R. Wurster Construction's ability to work within architecturally significant residences while preserving the craftsmanship that makes them exceptional.

From the restoration of original doors and windows to the integration of a custom Officine Gullo kitchen and bespoke Fine Paints of Europe finishes, every scope required patience, precision, and a deep respect for the home’s legacy.

This project reflects TRW’s ability to execute highly specialized restoration work where historic preservation, craftsmanship, and modern luxury must coexist seamlessly, ensuring these remarkable homes continue to endure for generations to come.

Project Credits

Construction: T.R. Wurster Construction
Original Architect: Wallace Neff
Client: Confidential
Location: Los Angeles, California
Project Type: Historic Residential Restoration & Renovation
Featured Installation: Officine Gullo Kitchen
Specialty Finish: Fine Paints of Europe