47 East Commerce St.
Smyrna DE. 19977
The Renovation Story
The renovations began in 2016 and lasted three long years. The end result is a beautiful historic manor for all to enjoy.
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Exterior Front
The Cobalt Manor was built in 1868 by J.C. Bailey. Mr. Bailey owned and operated the town lumber mill which was originally located west of the property. The manor is built in the Italianate Victorian style, exemplified by the hipped roof, cornices and front pillars.
The East façade faces East street adjacent to Rt. 13. When we purchased the property the east side was a dilapidated garage, driveway and overgrown brush.
It became our event pad and patio.
The west side meets the east with the Italianate inspired side entrance from the patio.
Exterior East and West
The Cobalt ROOM
The Cobalt Room is the Manor's name sake. When you walk in the front door and turn to the west, this is the fist grand room. With wood trim around windows and doors that is nearly one foot wide, the original crystal chandelier, and the rich cobalt walls, this is the "fancy" room. The first floor boasts 12' ceilings and elaborate details. The original fireplace was ripped put when the house was used as a half way house and the room was divided. To take the place of the original we found a mantel from the same period.
The beautiful tiles that surrounded the original fixture were cobalt blue storybook tiles imported from Holland in the 1800's. These tiles are near impossible to find today. To reproduce the tiles we found original images and duplicated them on to transfers onto tile. It was painstaking work. but well worth having the look of the original tiles.
The original hardwood floors have been restored but still bear the scars of abuse.
The Saloon
The saloon is the largest room in the manor. Nearly all of the original massive plaster trim remains. Beautiful ornate medallions surround the original crystal chandelier. A portion of the original fire place exists in addition to a replacement mantle from the period of origin. The mirror over the bar is the original mirror from the mantel in the cobalt room.
One of the grandest features of the great rooms are the 10' tall bench seat mirrors. Outstanding hand carved craftsmanship, gilded.
The Master Suit
The master suite is one of the most elegant rooms in the monor. Ten foot ceilings and seven foot tall windows make this room the perfect bridal suite. A massive bathroom that was added in the 1930's holds a claw foot tub, full shower double vanity and plenty of room for the bride and her entourage.