Building History

The Georgian Revival style 2 story limestone village hall was designed in 1925 by Edwin H. Clark.  The building is a local landmark and is actively used by the community as the village hall, seat of local government and houses office for most municipal services.

Preservation and Building Pathology Challenges

The Village of Winnetka retained Brush Architects to complete the work led by Mary Brush while she was employed by Holabird & Root.  We were frequently reminded of the unofficial motto of ‘progress with no change.’  The building was to provide improved services and modern office spaces, while maintaining all familiar characteristics, and to be a leader for the community in Sustainability and LEED compliance.  Brush Architects was retained the restoration of the doors and storm windows throughout the building.

Design Solution

Mary Brush, as the Preservation Group Leader at Holabird & Root led the design team for the building envelope restoration and the interior finishes restoration.  This included the cleaning of the limestone primarily of the biological discoloration from years of vine growth, restoration of the arch top and double hung windows throughout the building, restoration of the clay tile roof re-using 60% of the original clay tiles, and integrating the new mechanical system vents in an unused chimney, away from pedestrian view.  The clock tower required new metal cladding and wood conservation, but the copper roof was in serviceable condition and re-installed.

The building interior received restoration of the council chambers including revitalized finishes to the walnut paneling, renewal of the Athenian Oath that guides principle decisions of the village leaders.  A new dais for the meetings that allows security protection as well as full technology, and a restored plaster ceiling that previously had been subject to numerous penetrations.  the primary public spaces were restored with new plaster ceilings, polished and repaired travertine, and revitalized walnut finishes.