Cultural, Civic & Arts, Historic Preservation

Douglas County Courthouse Dome Restoration

The BVH design team performed a multi-phase restoration of the Douglas County Courthouse Hall of Justice mural system. After years of neglect and deterioration caused by fire damage, poor lighting, and a failing ceiling structure, the DCC enlisted BVH to lead a structural analysis and subsequent restoration of the glass dome and murals. The multi-phase project saw the steel and stained-glass dome restored, including application of goldleaf finishing, and the analyzation, restoration, and conservation of the eight 107-year-old murals.

Depicting the region’s history and expansion, the eight murals curve around the 5th floor of the Hall of Justice. Paint samples, exposure windows, and original documents were all consulted to bring the aging and deteriorating paintings back to life. Several murals had been repainted over the years to include inappropriate additional imagery, often changing the work’s original intent.

BVH and Evergreene Architectural Arts worked to restore the pieces to their original intent, whether through in-place restoration or at times complete recreation in the original artist’s style. New lighting was installed, and final documentation was provided to the Courthouse to ensure future conservation efforts succeed.

Photography by BVH & Amoura Productions

Previous Project Next Project