In keeping with the history and charm of Chestnut Hill’s Germantown Avenue corridor, Norwood-Fontbonne Academy’s “Big House” façade is being restored.  Deteriorating terra cotta tiles on the porch had caused structural damage. This summer, a new wrap-around porch floor and stair rails were the first steps of this endeavor. Repairs and painting of the exterior columns and trim continues, eventually returning this historical treasure to its earlier grandeur.  Built as a private residence in 1852, then later used for classrooms and dorms of the former Norwood Academy, the house is now home to NFA’s administrative offices.  Easily accessed off of a circular driveway, the main entrance is flanked with welcoming benches, a gift of the Class of 2012.