Academy of Music
Philadelphia, PA
Innovative Preservation Techniques Revive a Philadelphia Icon
Since 2010, Atkin Olshin Schade Architects has been working to complete major renovation and restoration projects for the historic Academy of Music on Broad Street.
The Academy of Music is Philadelphia’s oldest and most venerable concert hall. Designed by noted architect Napoleon LeBrun with Gustave Runge between 1855-57, the facility is characterized by a highly decorated neo-Baroque interior while the Renaissance Revival exterior is modeled after La Scala, Milan’s renowned opera hall.
Most recently, AOS completed work that includes the rehabilitation of the exterior balcony. The scope of the project includes the full restoration and replacement of the original balcony brackets and balcony cornice, the installation of a new cast-stone balustrade, a new waterproof membrane coating, and a new lighting scheme that highlights this restored decoration and structure. The balcony restoration is a part of a complex, multi-phase exterior restoration campaign that also included roof repair and selective roof replacement, cupola restoration, brick repointing, and repairs and painting of the projecting metal cornice.
Previous work at the Academy of Music includes interior renovations of the restrooms and the restoration of the stone lobby floor, as well as improvements to the mechanical building parapet.
Project Team (Balcony Restoration Project):
Structural Engineer: Keast & Hood
Electrical Engineer: Vanderweil Engineers
Masonry Conservation Specialist: Building Conservation Associates
Lighting Designer: HLB Lighting Design
Masonry Contractor: Pullman
Contractor: Haverstick-Borthwick