Cambridge, MA
Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Building 10 Great Dome
Scope/Solutions
Massachusetts Institute of Technology’s (MIT) Main Group Buildings, dedicated in 1916, include Building 10 with its prominent limestone- and copper-clad Great Dome. SGH investigated leakage into the Barker Library below the Great Dome and developed a durable repair solution commiserate with the original design aesthetic. We also led a multidisciplinary team for the restoration of the oculus skylight and the Barker Reading Room.
For the waterproofing repair project, SGH completed the following:
- Designed repairs to add continuous waterproofing over the stepped portion of the concrete dome, requiring removal of limestone and copper cladding
- Surveyed existing limestone so new stone could be cut to match original shapes, but with reduced depth to permit proper drainage
- Tested stepped waterproofing options to verify their ability to accommodate the unique geometry and compatibility with existing built-up waterproofing
- Designed a custom anchorage assembly to maintain an open cavity behind stones and provide adjustability for setting stones on the circumference
- Sequenced installation of copper flashing and limestone to match the original flashing and protect the new waterproofing
For the oculus restoration, SGH performed the following:
- Designed a new stainless steel skylight with 1,042 new prismatic glass blocks to replace the existing concrete-framed glass block skylight
- Designed a new aluminum-framed, silicone-glazed skylight to provide the weatherproofing for the oculus
- Reviewed and analyzed the existing laylight frame and designed new safety glazing for the laylight
- Analyzed air movement to reduce laylight condensation risk potential
- Monitored construction, provided real-time solutions to issues as they arose, reviewed mockups, and water tested completed installations
Photo by ABVD Photography - Benjamin D. Johnson
Photo by ABVD Photography - Benjamin D. Johnson
Photo by ABVD Photography - Benjamin D. Johnson
Photo by ABVD Photography - Benjamin D. Johnson
Photo by ABVD Photography - Benjamin D. Johnson
Photo by ABVD Photography - Benjamin D. Johnson
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Project Summary
2013
Completion Date
Award
Winner
Solutions
Repair & Rehabilitation | Preservation
Services
Building Enclosures
Markets
Education
Client(s)
Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Specialized Capabilities
Preservation | Roofing & Waterproofing
Key team members
Additional Projects
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