Historic Preservation

Nebraska State Capitol Restoration

BVH Architecture partnered with Wiss Janney Elstner in 1997 to provide historic preservation investigation and design services for an extensive multi-phase, multi-year restoration project of the entire exterior envelope of the Nebraska State Capitol. Designed by Bertram Goodhue in 1920, the building is a National Historic Landmark.

Initially, BVH/WJE conducted an extensive condition survey and investigation of the limestone masonry exterior, tower façade, tower window systems, gold tile dome, tile murals, roofs, and roof plazas. An extensive mapping of the deteriorated surface, mortar/stone analysis and window air infiltration testing was also performed. A condition survey report and multi-phase preservation plan were prepared and included the historical background of the construction, repairs and maintenance of the Capitol; an assessment of the existing conditions, including drawings and photographs; and prioritized recommendations for the maintenance and repair of the Capitol exterior, including a cyclical maintenance plan.

BVH/WJE also prepared full restoration contract documents and provided on-site plan construction administration services for the four-phase, multi-year effort. The $57.4M project was substantially completed in fall 2010 and included restoration of the masonry at the tower, base and courtyard, gold dome, the iconic bronze Sower atop the dome, bronze windows and copper roof.

Photography by BVH & Tom Kessler
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