Gates of Heaven

Name: InSite Consulting Architects
Price range: $

Project Background

Built in 1863, the Gates of Heaven Synagogue (NRHP #70000030) is the eighth oldest surviving synagogue building in the nation and was built of Madison sandstone. It was designed in the Rundbogenstil style, a nineteenth-century German form of Romanesque Revival. The original architect was August Kutzbock, known best as the architect for Wisconsin’s second State Capitol Building. Saved from demolition by the City of Madison, it was moved to James Madison Park in 1971. At the start of this project in 2018, the exterior of the building was degrading: with deteriorating wood windows and trim; discoloration and biological growth on the body of the building; and portions of the Madison sandstone were eroding to sand.

Project Type: Preservation & Restoration , Building Enclosure Technology

Markets Served: Liturgical , Civic/Community/Cultural , Technical

Scope

Intensive two-year study of the Madison sandstone for the best methods of stabilization and consolidation

Investigation and harvesting of stones from seven other sources collaborating with other local businesses

World-wide search for compatible replacement stone

Evaluating proper repointing mortar types and techniques

Rigorous building survey for proper stone, wood window, and wood trim repair and replacement components

Working with masonry specialist partners to develop techniques, specifications, and budget pricing

Trained and certified the masons on all masonry restoration and treatment

Followed the Secretary of the Interior Standards Guidelines for Rehabilitation and the

Preservation Brief recommendations for masonry and window restoration.

Solution

Our team worked directly with the City of Madison staff to deliver a project that met their scope, schedule, and budget. The stone erosion was stabilized through a sound solution for stone repairs and consolidation without changing the properties of the stone. The wood windows and trim were restored, inside and out, to provide a watertight exterior envelope and protect the intact interior. Our design team also trained and certified the masonry team to provide skilled labor to rehabilitate the building envelope to meet the Secretary of Interior Standards for Masonry Restoration. This restoration will allow the building to function for the next 100 years.

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SUMMARY

Stabilization and repair of Madison Sandstone treasure

Intensive 2‑year study of proper repair techniques

Wood window and trim restoration

Photo by Zane Williams Photography

Photo by Zane Williams Photography

Photo by Zane Williams Photography

Photo by Zane Williams Photography

Stephen Mar-Pohl

President

Zachary Mar-Pohl

Building Envelope Specialist

Work With Us

We are growing and looking for new and diverse talent with a passion for sustainable architecture. Our flexible and inclusive firm has opportunities in the heart of Madison, WI and Washington, DC.

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