Bucknell University Carnegie Building

Cast Stone Institute 2012 RESTORATION EXCELLENCE Award Winner

This Cast Stone restoration, is a complete replacement of the original Brownstone entry stairs and wall coping. Over the years, the original Brownstone deteriorated, and was no longer structurally sound. A custom mix design was developed to match the original Brownstone. The scope includes the complete replacement of the existing brownstone steps, landing, and wall coping.

The role of Cast Stone was to replicate the severely deteriorated original brownstone elements, which were damaged beyond repair, due to years of weathering and use. With natural brownstone becoming more difficult to source, cast stone was selected for its ability to replicate the natural stone in both color and texture.

The replacement Cast Stone entry is a perfect replication of the original structure. The original top landing of the entry was structural in nature, spanning the entire width of the entry. In order to meet this challenge, the cast stone landing was designed to be structural, at an overall dimension of 5’3” wide x 13’ 8” long x 6 ¾” thick. This project is a perfect example of how cast stone can also be used in structural applications, while still maintaining its architectural appeal in replicating natural stone.

Comments from the Judges:
"The restoration stayed true to the aesthetic intent of the original stairs."

"The fact that the stairs spanned the under ground walkway made the project difficult."

Masonry Contractor: Eagle Ridge Contracting, Inc. | Architect: Bucknell University Construction and Design Team

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