Restoring a Grand Staircase
Built in 1894, the Natural History Building is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The $70 million renovation modernizes the building while reviving a historic gem. Among the beautiful improvements, the most impressionable is the restoration of the grand staircase.
History
The original 1894 structure featured an intricate wood ceiling and symmetrical, ornate stairs from the first through fourth floors. In the 1950s, the north stair was removed to allow the installation of mezzanines and an office. The remaining south stair, though still functional, had suffered in appearance over time.
Discovery
Discovering the original condition and existence of both stairs was like an archaeological dig. After sifting through historical documents and peeling away layers of physical alterations, the design team presented the idea of returning the original function of the grand staircase by using historic photographs as reference to restore the existing stair and duplicate the detailed design of the wood to reconstruct its lost companion.
Restoration
Historic renovation consultant Harboe Associates detailed the decorative pattern, devised and detailed the steel under-structure, and coordinated assembly. Harboe Associates also detailed the restoration of the wood ceilings and other historic details. Heritage Restoration & Design Studio provided superb craftsmanship in restoring the existing stair and producing its match. Each element of the existing staircase was photographed, cataloged and drawn for fabrication.
Dramatic Statement
Entering the building from the north, visitors experience an elegant space where all architectural elements lead to the symmetrical stair. The stains and pattern of the bamboo flooring echo the strong lines of the original dark wood coffered ceiling, which was uncovered during demolition, cleaned and restored. An unexpected and delightful surprise awaits visitors as they progress to the second level. The intricately carved wooden stairs come alive against a field of light-colored walls and an open, brightly illuminated well. Multiple collaborative zones, defined by different colors and patterns of bamboo flooring, are furnished with classic modern pieces in nature-inspired colors and fabrics with occasional accents of red.