Presents a case study on the use of architectural precast concrete as a cost-effective approach to restore an historic park facility in Chicago, Illinois. The main entrance portico of the facility was originally constructed with an elaborate limestone beam or entablature, carried by massive limestone columns. The carved limestone architrave (soffit), frieze, and cornice (upper projection) pieces of the entablature were attached to backup brickwork and concealed steel lintel beams with metal anchors. After significant stone damage and movements occurred due to long-term corrosion of embedded steel components, several limestone soffit pieces were removed from the building for safety. The restoration design utilized architectural precast concrete with a formed soffit having the identical proportions, texture and color as the damaged architrave stone pieces, and had structural capacity to replace the existing steel lintel beams. The design provided a unique, cost-effective approach for
replacing deteriorated and damaged components, while retaining the original, intricate limestone carvings.
