The formal dining room features Italianate architectural design. This style dominated 19th century architecture.
◼ The room features the original table for up to 12 guests, and a mezzanine from which a string quartet could perform during meals.
◼ There are also two curved niches on either side of the fireplace for enjoying a drink and small talk before dinner.
◼ The magnificent chandelier has recently been restored to its former glory, and is suspended from an intricate ceiling with gilded touches.
◼ If you look closely, you can see the images of a Phoenix in the ceiling gilding.
◼ On the Frieze above the wall paneling, notice the owls with outspread wings.
◼ An original large glass cabinet, probably originally containing crystal serving pieces and glassware, sits opposite a highly carved built-in cabinet and serving area.
◼ Portage Red sandstone from “Portage Entry” Michigan was common material for these Richardsone Romenseque homes in the late 1880s.

◼ The fraternity purchased the original table back from Russell Sage College with all of its leaves and chairs!
◼ The brothers used a rubber/plastic cover to protect the floor during parties.
◼ The Washington D.C. home of John Paine’s architect T. F. Schneider’s included a Ball Room that shared many elements with Paine’s Dining Room.
◼ The built-in cabinet features carvings of four major elements of the meal: Fruits/ Vegetables/ Starches, Beef, Poultry, and Fish (See the four elements quadriptych?☺ below)

◼ During 2020, one generous brother organized the restoration of the chandelier.

◼ Restore the damaged floor and polish with period-correct materials.
◼ Restore the light fixtures with period-correct finishes and glass globes.
◼ Renovate the windows with energy efficient seals, counterweights and functional storm windows.