Rhode Island State House

A century of deterioration left the grand marble terraces and plazas of the Rhode Island State House, and their underlying structures, in need of extensive (and specialized) repair. Over the course of four years, DBVW disassembled and rebuilt damaged walls that enclose two levels of office, storage and mechanical space; integrated a modern drainage and roofing system; and reconstructed a monumental staircase. In addition to structural work, the four-year project called for the removal of thousands of pieces of damaged marble balustrades, pavers and handrails. The firm measured, catalogued, and replaced each deteriorated marble component with exact replicas, using marble from the original Georgia Quarry. The Restoration Report detailed the four stages of work that were completed over a six year period, including the investigative phase. Construction costs for each phase were also summarized. Recommendations for continued future maintenance of the State House were proposed as a means of preserving this important landmark for future generations.