Folger Shakespeare Library - Exterior Marble Restoration
Restoring the iconic Art Deco marble facade to its original 1932 grandeur
Project Overview
The Folger Shakespeare Library's exterior marble restoration represented a critical preservation effort to protect and restore one of Washington D.C.'s most significant Art Deco landmarks. Built in 1932, the library's distinctive white Georgian marble facade had suffered decades of weathering, requiring careful restoration to preserve its architectural integrity.
Landmark Logix served as Owner's Representative for this complex 24-month restoration project, coordinating specialized marble conservation teams, structural engineers, and historic preservation experts. Our team managed the intricate process of cleaning, repairing, and replacing deteriorated marble panels while maintaining the building's historic character and ensuring continued library operations.
The project required innovative solutions to address water infiltration, structural support issues, and the replacement of over 200 severely damaged marble panels with carefully matched Georgia marble. Working closely with the DC Historic Preservation Office and the National Park Service, we ensured that all restoration work met the highest standards of historic preservation.
Project Details
Folger Shakespeare Library
Cultural & Arts
24 Months
$15.8M
Complete facade restoration
Project Timeline & Progression
Assessment & Documentation
Comprehensive condition survey of 2,400+ marble panels, structural analysis, and historic documentation
Marble Sourcing & Testing
Identification of matching Georgia marble sources, material testing, and mock-up installations
Panel Replacement & Repair
Systematic removal and replacement of damaged panels, structural reinforcement, and waterproofing
Final Cleaning & Protection
Comprehensive facade cleaning, sealant application, and long-term maintenance planning
Landmark Logix's expertise in historic preservation was invaluable to this project. They coordinated a complex restoration that preserved our building's architectural heritage while addressing serious structural concerns. The facade looks as magnificent as it did in 1932.
Michael Witmore
Director, Folger Shakespeare Library
Key Achievements
Historic Preservation Award
Received DC Historic Preservation Award for Excellence in Restoration
Zero Operational Disruption
Library remained fully operational throughout 24-month restoration
218 Panels Replaced
Successfully replaced damaged marble with perfectly matched Georgia marble
100% Water Intrusion Eliminated
Comprehensive waterproofing system preventing future damage
On-Time Delivery
Complex restoration completed on schedule despite weather challenges
50-Year Warranty
All restoration work backed by comprehensive long-term warranty
Scope of Services
Owner's Representation
Comprehensive project oversight including budget management, schedule coordination, and quality control for this $15.8M restoration
Historic Preservation Planning
Coordination with DC Historic Preservation Office, National Park Service, and preservation consultants to ensure compliance with all historic standards
Materials Procurement
Sourcing of historically accurate Georgia marble, testing for color and grain matching, and coordination of specialized fabrication
Contractor Management
Daily oversight of specialized marble restoration contractors, structural engineers, and waterproofing specialists
Stakeholder Coordination
Regular communication with library staff, board members, donors, and the public to maintain support throughout the project
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