Hotel Monaco
Location: Philadelphia, PA
Client: Intech Construction
Design Team:
- Architect: Gensler
- Engineer: Wiss, Janney, Elstner Associates, Inc.
This project involved the exterior restoration and repair of the historic Lafayette Building, now operating as Hotel Monaco Philadelphia. The scope focused on preserving the architectural integrity of the building’s multi-elevation facade and roof systems, with careful attention to its historic materials and ornamental detailing.
Key components of the restoration included:
- Terra Cotta Restoration & Replacement:
- Removal and in-kind replacement of deteriorated terra cotta units.
- Substitution with Glass Fiber Reinforced Concrete (GFRC) where appropriate.
- Repair and reinstallation of architectural terra cotta elements including cornices, window surrounds, and sill units.
- Installation of new cast stone lintels to replace damaged terra cotta lintels.
- Brick Masonry Repairs:
- 100% repointing of brick masonry joints.
- Selective removal and replacement of brick in running and recessed common bond patterns.
- Restoration of multi-wythe brick walls and elevator shaft enclosures.
- Limestone Restoration:
- Repair and repointing of decorative limestone cornices, water tables, and column capitals.
- Crack remediation through pinning, routing, sealing, and epoxy injection.
This adaptive reuse project exemplifies the balance between historic preservation and modern functionality, restoring the building’s grandeur while ensuring long-term durability and performance.
