Project Focus:
The Pennsylvania Capitol:
Harrisburg, PA
Masonry Conservation, Waterproofing,
Specifications Consultation,
Construction Supervision

The capitol is a spectacular symbol of the Commonwealth, and arguably one of the most significant buildings in Pennsylvania.  Built in 1906, its rich detail and exquisite ornamentation testify to Pennsylvania's wealth and importance at the turn of the 20th century.

The building is defined by the dignified lines and features of the Classical Revival with Beaux Arts ornamentation.   Architect Joseph Huston executed this monumental work in Woodbury (VT) gray granite, anchoring the building with strong foundations, arranging it in ashlar blocks across every facade, carving it into elaborate pilaster and column capitals, turning it into slender balusters at roof level, and creating with it distinctive lines of light and shadow which accentuate a monolithic masonry surface.  Over the course of the century, weathering and a series of ill-advised treatments have compromised the stability of the stone and the aesthetic integrity of the building.

As a partner in Perfido Weiskopf/Graves/Noble Joint Venture, Noble Preservation designed and completed a masonry conservation study which formed the basis for repointing, waterproofing, cleaning and repairing more than 400,000 square feet of granite in preparation for the re-dedication of the building to the Commonwealth in honor of its centennial celebration.  Our pre-construction work consisted of surveying the entire building for deterioration mechanisms, conducting laboratory experimentation/ examination on stone samples and constructing/ assessing in-situ mock-ups for potential conservation treatments.  After completing the study, our office composed specifications for the project, assisted in reviewing qualifications and contractor selection, and has been actively involved in supervising all masonry work.

Noble Preservation's work at the capitol has expanded to include designing and managing the restoration/ conservation of the Commonwealth Statue, investigations in the Governor's and Lieutenant Governor's Offices, and designing/ supervising temporary systems to protect historic materials in the House of Representatives and Senate Chambers. 

Noble Preservation directed a series of mock-ups to determine appropriate conservation techniques.

Our conservation study included a petrographic characterization of the granite (polarized light photomicrograph).

We have supervised masonry work, including the repair and re-setting of the main staircase.