Notes on Restoration and Preservation

The DeSoto County Courthouse at 115 East Oak Street in Arcadia, Florida, is the pivotal building of the Arcadia Historic District and has been the seat of county business since 1913. In 2024, Graciano Corporation restored the courthouse’s exterior masonry on a six-month, $1.9 million contract while the building remained in daily use. The Building …

The Cork Factory at 2349 Railroad Street is one of the most recognizable buildings in Pittsburgh’s Strip District. Architect Frederick Osterling designed the Romanesque Revival structures beginning in 1901. The complex grew to 440,000 square feet across three buildings: the original factory in 1901, a warehouse in 1902, and the tower addition in 1913. The …

In a constantly changing world, restoring historic buildings ensures that the stories and legacies within the walls of these buildings are preserved for future generations. Historic building restoration is not merely about maintaining old structures but keeping the stories of those who came before us alive, enriching our cultural heritage, strengthening local economies, and inspiring …

Chimneys are an integral part of many residential and commercial buildings, allowing for the safe expulsion of smoke, gasses, and more. However, over time, these structures are subjected to weathering from rain, wind, and temperature fluctuations, which can take a toll on their structural integrity. This is where chimney pointing comes into play. In this …

Mortar plays a critical role in brick buildings’ structural integrity and visual appeal. As time passes, weathering can wear down mortar joints, affecting buildings’ visual charm and stability. To uphold and restore the appearance of masonry, one essential technique comes into play: Tuckpointing. What is Tuckpointing? Tuckpointing has been around for years, having been …

In building restoration, brick pointing plays a pivotal role in preserving the essence of historical structures, buildings, and residential homes, ensuring their longevity, and maintaining their aesthetic appeal. But what is brick pointing? If you are not familiar with the term, you are not alone. In this exploration, we will help you understand what brick …

St. Bartholomew Episcopal Church stands proudly as one of New York’s noteworthy historical, architectural, and cultural landmarks. Serving both as a center of worship and a cultural hub for the community, St. Barts (as it is commonly known) has played a significant role in developing Manhattan’s historical and cultural landscape. Adorned with intricate mosaics, detailed …

Graciano Corporation recently completed a two-year restoration of Pittsburgh’s historic Highland Park Pedestrian Tunnel working with the City of Pittsburgh and with help from The Pittsburgh Parks Conservancy. The tunnel was closed because of deterioration and safety concerns. Erosion, weather, and tree roots were pushing out stone blocks and the arched tunnel was in danger …

With four generations of expertise, Graciano has been at the forefront of historic preservation and restoration, leveraging advanced technical competencies and architectural mastery. Our track record has demonstrated our capabilities in undertaking the country’s most complex restoration projects. A prime example is our restoration project of the 150-year-old Belvedere Castle. Over a 16-month period, Graciano …

With their timeless allure and historical significance, lighthouses stand as enduring symbols of maritime heritage, guiding ships safely through treacherous waters and evoking a sense of wonder. However, the passage of time and the relentless forces of nature often necessitate conscientious restoration to preserve their legacy. The process of lighthouse restoration is a complex endeavor …

What are Building Façades? Building façades encompass a structure’s outer surfaces or walls that are visible from the exterior. Façades can be the entrance, exterior windows, or the side of the building that is facing the street. Façades have the dual purpose of providing functionality along with aesthetics. Functionally, they shield the building from environmental …

Concrete is renowned for being one of the most durable and versatile materials for different buildings, from residential homes to towering skyscrapers. However, even the sturdiest material is susceptible to damage and deterioration. Like any material, maintenance is vital to preserve its integrity and continue serving as a solid foundation for buildings and structures for …

The appeal of modern architecture and its breakthrough features often overshadow the significance of historic buildings. However, these structures carry a profound history and provide the very basis for today’s cities and the buildings within them. Preserving and restoring historic structures goes beyond simply keeping history alive. It also shows our deep respect for the …

New York City is home to numerous very large skyscrapers that dominate their cityscape, but NYC is not the only U.S. city that has a magnificent skyline. However, when regarding building safety regulations, New York City stands out with its Local Law 11. What is Local Law 11, and why is it unique …

The Frick Building’s 3-Year Historic Restoration Project The Frick Building in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania is an iconic structure in the downtown area and is listed as a Registered Historic Landmark in the City of Pittsburgh. The historic restoration project began with an investigation into the failure of a one-ton granite section that fell 300 feet onto …

Have you ever wondered how the skyscrapers in New York City have been able to stand so tall for so many decades? Like any other structure, these buildings require regular maintenance to ensure their pristine condition and the safety of those around them. This is especially true for skyscrapers, where it’s exposed to various environmental …