Project Challenge:
Klein and Hoffman (K&H) performed a critical facade inspection
of this 1888 Burnham and Root masterpiece to comply with the
City of Chicago's aggressive facade Ordinance. During the inspections
we identified areas of distress that required repair and restoration.
Aspects of the unique original design and construction of the
building required innovative repair design and detailing. Significant
ornamental terra cotta units, removed decades before, required
replacement. To satisfy the National Park Service, the State
of Illinois and the City of Chicago's stringent landmark requirements,
K&H drew upon our extensive experience and expertise with
architecturally significant buildings.
Project Solution:
The owners requested a phased program to repair the problem
areas identified during the critical facade inspection. The
first phase, completed in 2003, included repairs to the corner
turrets and the west parapet wall. Full tuckpointing of these
areas was done along with replacement or repair of damaged terra
cotta units, rebuilding of large areas of brick masonry and
stabilization or resetting of displaced masonry.
Phase two was completed in 2005 and addressed deficiencies
on the remaining portions of the building. Design of previously
removed ornamental terra cotta units was achieved using original
construction drawings and archived photographs. K&H prepared
repair drawings and specifications, worked with the City of
Chicago Landmarks Commission and provided extensive field
services during the repairs.
Construction techniques employed by the original engineers
were a constant challenge to K&H and unconventional methods
were needed to design permanent repairs.
OWNER: The Rookery
CLIENT: ING Clarion Realty Services
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