Historic House Numbers in Gold Leaf

At Designs & Signs in Edgewater, Maryland, we gild historic house numbers in 23 karat gold leaf. We create and apply them by hand on the glass transoms of homes and businesses. The tradition of gold leaf lettering is returning, and many homeowners now choose it for their entries.

Historic house numbers in gold leaf on a glass transom in Washington, DC

How Old Is the Tradition of Gold Leaf Lettering?

Gold leaf has decorated objects for thousands of years. Tomb paintings in ancient Egypt show goldbeaters at work, and gold and silver leaf on glass goes back to early Roman times. By the 1800s, craftsmen gilded the back of glass for mirrors and shop signs, a method known as verre églomisé. Later, in the Victorian era, gold leaf window signs became a popular mark of quality on fine shops and offices.

Why Gold Leaf Feels Historic and Classic

Gold leaf has stayed in style for generations, and the craft itself has hardly changed. We still gild by hand, one layer at a time. As a result, gold leaf house numbers suit historic homes. On a row house with an old glass transom, they look like they have always belonged there.

Why Choose Gold Leaf Numbers

First, gold leaf numbers are easy to read from the street, so guests and delivery drivers can find your home. Next, the gold shines when it catches the light, which adds curb appeal. Finally, a hand gilded address connects your home to a long tradition.

Historic House Numbers in Washington, DC

Washington, DC has many historic homes with glass transoms, so gold leaf numbers fit right in. The numbers in the photo above, at 1502, are one of our projects in the city. Each set of historic house numbers starts with a drawing that we adjust with you until it feels right. See more of our glass gilding:

Contact Designs & Signs

The quickest way to get started on your project is to send us an email.
We can also be reached by phone at (410) 798-5115.

Let's Get Started!

We've been making signs by hand since 1976, from gold leaf boat names and carved quarterboards to dimensional letters and glass gilding.

The quickest way to begin is to send us a message with your project details, and we'll get back to you with ideas and pricing.

We look forward to working with you!

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