The best way to learn about historic houses is to look at them closely, and the most fun way to look at them closely is to do a puzzle showing a wonderful historic house! So, we made a unique and interesting collection of Historic House Puzzles for you to enjoy!
This remarkable late 19th-century Aesthetic Movement ceiling in the Cohen-Bray House in Oakland, CA, combines five patterns printed on paper with paint banding, striping, and stenciling.
The 1884 Stick Style house contains 17 rooms, five fireplaces, ornate redwood paneling, original furnishings, stained glass, wallpapers, and carpeting. Due to the fragile condition of the interiors, it is now a study center for Victorian design, not a traditional museum house.
Limited tours are available to the public.
The house retains original furniture in the Aesthetic style inspired by Charles Eastlake, author of the influential “Hints on Household Taste,” published in 1868. It was occupied until recently by descendants of its original owners. It is a rare intact Aesthetic Movement interior. It also has several rooms remodeled in the Craftsmen style after the damage from the 1906 earthquake.
“Restoring Your Historic House, The Comprehensive Guide for Homeowners” addresses interior finishes in detail — including floors, walls, ceilings, trim, and paint and paper.
Click on the dashed box at the top-right in the puzzle box below to open the puzzle to full screen. In the top left, you can change the number of pieces (100 pieces is the default), toggle piece rotation, and change the background color. Then hit “OK” and have fun!