Historic Water Tower

Chicago, Illinois

Client: City of Chicago: Department of General Services

Cost: $1,750,000

Bauer Latoza Studio was the architect to the Department of General Services for the restoration of the exterior of the Water Tower. The Firm assessed and documented the condition of every individual stone of the façade, and devised step-by-step methods to repair and clean the stone exterior. A consolidant and water repellant were applied to retard the inevitable occurrence of stone shaling.

A low pressure, chemical-free, water cleaning was accomplished through a “grid” system of nozzles. The copper cupola was reconstructed precisely according to the design drawings of 1866. Additionally, the Firm assisted in the design of new exterior uplighting with which to showcase the Tower on North Michigan Avenue.

The work was completed eight days ahead of schedule and 7 1/2% under budget.