Carla Westerman is a freelance writer who has lived in Chester County for 25 years. She is the author and photographer of the pictorial guide Chadds Ford: History, Heroes and Landmarks. She has written features and news for regional magazines and newspapers since 1980 and enjoys writing about people, art, history, food, and travel. Carla was a food writer for a decorative arts magazine while living in Hong Kong. She speaks four languages and works as a consultant leading cross-cultural seminars for business executives.
Carla Westerman's Articles
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A Chester County Artisan
The finishing touch for antiques
Published on 2/28/13
Tucked away in one of West Chester’s narrow alleys, Rose Valley Restorations has become a destination for antique furniture in need of a new lease on life. Trained in Italy, owner John Hutchinson uses centuries-old techniques to restore the period pieces brought to his workshop. Read More »
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Curating the Home Gallery
Don’t neglect your artwork
Published on 12/03/12
Art-covered walls are nothing unusual in our area, where the artistic tradition started by the Brandywine School still runs strong. The thrill of acquiring a painting that resonates and finding the perfect spot for it lifts our spirits and transforms a room. So it’s disturbing to think that a treasured piece of art may be deteriorating right before our eyes. Read More »
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The Union League
Philadelphia's Storied Club
Published on 9/25/12
The Union League has been a bastion on Broad Street for Philadelphia’s elite since the end of the Civil War. The French Renaissance building that houses the private club occupies an entire city block just south of City Hall but most passersby know little of its storied history. Read More »
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Architectural Trim
Festoon the room with a touch of molding
Published on 3/02/12
You recognize it as soon as you enter the door: the house that exudes character. But what are the defining qualities of such a home? Read More »
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Cross Cultural Architecture
John Milner has designs on China
Published on 1/17/12
When architect John Milner took a call from China two years ago, he was puzzled. Why would a Chinese developer be contacting a Pennsylvania firm best known for its work in new traditional design and historic restoration? Read More »
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Hilltop Sanctuary
Chester County living, circa-1830
Published on 12/17/10
As they drove up the steep, rutted driveway through a tunnel of overgrown shrubbery, Dick and Diane Gies had no illusions that the old house at the top of the hill would be in good condition. And it wasn”t. Read More »
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Life At Full Gallop
A riding teacher looks back at three decades
Published on 11/19/10
Marie Jakubauskas doesn’t mince words when people come to Gateway Stables in Kennett Square saying they just want to take one of her horses out for a ride. Read More »
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Well Nested
Birds now live in high style
Published on 12/06/09
Tom Burke spent 25 years building custom homes with his father in Delaware. He still builds houses but now his business card reads: “Builder of Fine Bird Homes.” Read More »
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National Bank of Malvern
125 years of thinking small
Published on 7/20/09
Not many banks are in a celebratory mood this year given the upheavals on Wall Street. But one small Chester County bank with three women at its helm is not only toasting its 125th anniversary but also five generations of family involvement in bank operations. And to top it off they are having a very good year. Read More »
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The True Story of Lucky Foot Stables
JoAnn Dawson plots a horsey life
Published on 6/01/09
On any given morning, JoAnn Dawson might be leading a trail ride or heading off to a movie set, taking her pony to a book signing or preparing breakfast for overnight guests. Read More »
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