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Unity Temple Restoration Foundation
Project Information
- Project Location:
- Oak Park, IL
- Status:
- Completed
- Structure Type:
- Church / Synagogue
Scope Of Work
Project Overview
Despite Unity Temple’s standing as an architectural masterpiece and National Historic Landmark, Frank Lloyd Wright’s iconic church for the Unitarian Congregation was in urgent need of restoration and repair. First built in 1908, the structure had long suffered from the effects of leaking roofs, deteriorating concrete and an uneven and challenging maintenance approach. Its condition had become so dire that the National Trust for Historic Preservation listed the structure as one of “America’s 11 most endangered historic places.”
Hired as construction manager in 2015, Berglund Construction led a $23 million restoration project to preserve, revitalize and modernize Unity Temple. We took to heart our responsibility to ensure Unity Temple's functionality for future generations of congregants, architectural enthusiasts and the broader community.
Approach
As construction manager, Berglund developed and managed the team of subcontractors and craftspeople to execute the arduous restoration plan, which had been developed by renowned restoration architecture firm Harboe Architects. Our expert team ensured the exacting approach was implemented with the highest regards for quality and respect for the Frank Lloyd Wright masterpiece.
Berglund’s wide-ranging experience in the restoration and construction industry positioned us to properly manage a wide range of subcontractor work scopes including art glass restoration, historic interior plaster and paint, millwork, shotcrete façade repairs and façade cleaning, roofing, skylights, historic lighting, geothermal, landscaping and HVAC, electrical and plumbing upgrades.
The project also allowed us to continue a tradition and build on our reputation as one of the premier self-perform contractors in the region. Berglund completed the exterior concrete terrace and flatwork, concrete façade crack repairs, concrete flooring restoration, extensive structural concrete repairs and thousands of running feet of interior wood trim removal and reinstallation.
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