Belle of the Beach: Marzilli Restoration Brings the Sea Mist Back to Life
In 1873, when Cape May’s Sea Mist was constructed, beach front lots sold for a little as $1.00. Much has changed since then, including the Sea Mist itself. Originally built as a two-story home, the Sea Mist was transformed to a four-story, 13-unit apartment building with multiple porches, topped by a grand cupola. Its striking red and white color scheme and Victorian styling made it one of the well-known buildings in Cape May, N.J. But, by 2006, the Sea Mist was in desperate need of renovation and restoration.
Guided by the Cape May Historic Preservation Committee (HPC), the new owner chose Marzilli Construction to handle the massive job of faithfully restoring the building. It was anticipated that a historically accurate restoration of the building’s façade would be challenging. But, as Marzilli crews began working, they encountered even greater obstacles related to the building’s structural integrity.
Expansions over the years had not been completed properly. The entire four-story building sat on just four inches of concrete footing. An old Mansard roof was supporting the floor of another level, and additions had been nailed in place instead of being spliced to integrate with the main frame of the structure. Much of the inexpensive lumber used in previous additions had rotted.
Restoration from the ground Up
Marzilli started by shoring up the foundation. The building was jacked up and a portion of the foundation was reconstructed with new pilings and support beams. Old wood and structural elements were replaced throughout the building. Stronger walls and floors were constructed, new windows were installed and insulation was added between all floors and interior walls. Care was taken to work around the original two stories so that the main historical section would remain in place.
Because much of the building’s detailing had been lost over the years, the Marzilli design team viewed images from old photos and postcards, and researched exactly how the building looked in its glory days. Those details and features, including broad archways, wide column surrounds, ornate newel posts and more were precisely recreated using the finest materials. The exterior was sided with beveled cedar.
Inside, the Sea Mist has been converted to eight luxury condominiums, each incorporating a beautiful combination of traditional detailing and contemporary styling. Hardwood floors, crown moldings, wide baseboards and casings, and beautiful cabinetry create a warm, hand-crafted feeling throughout. Kitchens are equipped with state of the art appliances, and bathrooms feature Kohler fixtures, ceramic tile floors and other high-end amenities. All units have access to porches and decks, and large windows offering stunning ocean views.
Landmark honors
The two-year, two-million-dollar Sea Mist restoration was recently completed, and the new condominium units are available to buyers. The landmark building, which was once the most photographed structure in Cape May, is once again a favorite subject of residents and visitors.
Marzilli Construction has been honored for its skill in faithfully restoring the Sea Mist, and for its efforts to create a structure that will stand strong for many years to come. The company was the first place winner in the Cape May County Chamber of Commerce Business Renovation Award for 2008, and was also honored with the Cape May Historic Preservation Award for Best 2008 Historical Renovation.
To learn more about the Sea Mist visit: www.seamistcapemay.com