Project Focus:
Converse House:
Philadelphia, PA
Masonry Conservation, Finishes Conservation, window restoration, leaded glass conservation, Consultation, Specifications

As consultants to Venturi Scott Brown Architects, Noble Preservation has undertaken a masonry, finishes and leaded glass conservation study and has prepared specifications in anticipation of restoration of a significant 1893 elaborate sandstone townhouse built for the president of the Baldwin Locomotive Co. 

The townhouse rises four full stories from a rusticated red sandstone base to a massive overhanging copper cornice supported on carved stone brackets, while the second and third floors are constructed of yellow roman brick.  Through laboratory analysis, Noble Preservation was able to determine that although the current condition of the brick appears generally good, the sand stone varies in condition from pristine to exceptionally deteriorated.  Areas of carved detail are eroded and are actively spalling and missing in areas. 

Part of this study aklso focused on the leaded glass on the upper floors. It was determined that the leaded glass is generally in fair condition with some bent and bowed cames.  Wood windows, however, were in generally poor condition.

Detail of deteriorated sandstone carving on 1610 Locust St.