The demolition phase of the McGilchrist and Roth renovation project will undergo a shift soon as work begins on the removal of the brick façade along State and Liberty streets. The shift marks the beginning of the most visible part of the project for passersby.
Until recently, work focused on gutting non-historical elements from the interiors of both above-ground stories, including all inside walls and several layers of flooring. Every effort has been made to preserve what remains of the original materials and fixtures, including much of the ceiling paneling and many of the plastered columns.
The project has provided a unique look backward at the architectural and construction methods used during the time the buildings were built. Scott Champion, construction project manager for CD Redding, likened the experience to “archaeology” on a recent tour of the buildings.
Peeling back the layers of flooring revealed a sub-floor of 1” by 6” timber boards arranged diagonally, the method of choice for constructing stable flooring before plywood became widely available. In addition, cutting into the underlying concrete revealed how the site had been prepared before pouring the foundation, and removing wallpaper and paneling revealed doors, windows, and even a loading bay that had remained bricked up for decades.
After removal of the façade surrounding the main floor, future plans for the renovation project include removing non-historical elements from the basement floor, restoring the original brickwork and windows on the exterior of the upper floor, and upgrading the mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems throughout the buildings.
Renovation of the buildings along with some of the tenant improvements is scheduled to be completed in the first quarter of 2014.
For those interested in attending an upcoming tour, please call the Doty & Company office at (503) 362-9152.
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Article from Doty Pruett Wilson & Company PC, June 13, 2013