Project Focus:
World Food Prize Hall of Laureates/Des Moines Public Library:
Des Moines, IA
Masonry Conservation, Finishes Conservation, Consultation, Specifications

As consultants to RDG Planning & Design., Noble Preservation has undertaken an interior finishes conservation study and a masonry conservation study for severely deteriorated sandstone and is in the process of preparing specifications in anticipation of the building's restoration.

Although the interior of the building possesses ahighly ornate finishes, our study found evidence of decorative finishes that varied in pattern and colors originally specified.   A series of on-site investigations and laboratory analyses confirmed that many finishes in the rotunda had been overpainted.  Our resulting recommendations for this space could include selective re-creation of the intended patterns and color schemes.

Through laboratory analysis, Noble Preservation was able to determine that the current condition of the sandstone involves considerable alteration to the surface of minerals within the sandstone and iron staining throughout the exterior of the building.  This staining likely results from surface contamination of ferrous metals or from ferrous support elements embedded within the stone.  Past sandblasting campaign and a chemical cleaning in the latter portion of the 20th century have eroded the surface of the stone, which tends to trap atmospheric deposition such as dirt and pollution.

Testing in our lab also showed The building also suffers from surface staining caused by environmental deposition and/or the natural weathering of certain minerals, from biological growth such as algae and vines, and from the presence of bird-proofing gels found on horizontal surfaces, especially on the second and third story rear balconies. Analysis of the exterior consition of the building continues.

The yellowish-pink sandstone of the World Food Prize Hall of Laureates/Des Moin es Public Library is affected by severe exterior staining and other problems.