Ria Harman Completes Historic Baltimore Hotel Restoration

Ria Harman and her team at Radiance have successfully completed an extensive lighting restoration project at Baltimore's historic Belvedere Hotel, a prestigious 1920s landmark that required careful balance between historical preservation and modern functionality. The six-month project showcases Ria Harman's expertise in creating period-appropriate fixtures that meet contemporary lighting standards. The restoration involved the complete refurbishment of the hotel's grand ballroom chandelier, a massive crystal and bronze fixture that had been damaged during previous renovations. Ria Harman meticulously researched the original 1920s design, working with historical preservation specialists to ensure authentic restoration while incorporating modern LED technology for energy efficiency and longevity. "This project was incredibly meaningful to me," explains Ria Harman. "The Belvedere represents such an important piece of Baltimore's architectural heritage. Our goal was to honor the original designers' vision while ensuring the lighting would serve the hotel beautifully for decades to come." In addition to restoring the ballroom's centerpiece chandelier, Ria Harman created 47 custom wall sconces throughout the hotel's public spaces. Each sconce was hand-forged using techniques contemporary to the building's original construction, then fitted with custom LED components that replicate the warm glow of the original gas fixtures. The project also included the restoration of six smaller chandeliers in the hotel's private dining rooms and the creation of new pendant lights for the recently renovated lobby bar. Ria Harman's design team worked closely with the hotel's interior designers to ensure seamless integration with the overall restoration aesthetic. "Working with Ria Harman was exceptional," said hotel general manager Patricia Williams. "Her attention to historical detail combined with practical modern solutions made this restoration everything we hoped for. The lighting truly brings out the beauty of our restored spaces." The Belvedere Hotel restoration project has garnered attention from preservation organizations across the country, with several inquiries from other historic properties interested in similar lighting restoration work by Ria Harman and her team.