Period
1848 – 1892
Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception
Location
Albany, New York
Notables
National Register of Historic Places
HISTORICAL LEGACY
Designed by architect Patrick Keeley and begun in 1848, the Cathedral of Immaculate Conception is an early example of Gothic Revival design inspired by Augustus Pugin and the Cambridge Ecclesiology movement. By 1852, the main body of the Church was complete except for the chancel and sacristies at the west end, and the spires of the two towers above the base of the triple lancets. The north tower was completed in 1862, the south tower in 1886, and the apse and sacristies in 1892. The bulk of the stained glass was fabricated and installed over a ten-year period and completed in 1902.
The firm began working with the Albany Diocese on the repairs and maintenance of the Cathedral in 1975 and continued making incremental improvements to the building fabric over the course of twenty years. in 1995 the Diocese commissioned MCWB to prepare a Historic Structure Report in advance of a major restoration campaign. In 1999 Phase I of the restoration was initiated.
Patrick Keeley
PROJECT OVERVIEW
MCWB prepared masterplan designs followed by multiple phased restoration construction documents and oversaw construction for over 25 million dollars spanning approximately 15 years. Phase I addressed the worst of the exterior building deterioration, particularly stone masonry at the north tower and clerestories, and replacement of the main upper roof. Phase II involved the comprehensive restoration of the interior. Stabilization of the facade, replacement of the highly decorative carved masonry entrance portals, and complete reconstruction of the grand approach steps was completed in 2011. Various smaller projects have occurred over this period including restoration of many stained-glass windows. More work still must be done to complete the full restoration of the Cathedral, primarily for the completion of the stone masonry restoration and replacement.
MCWB also provided planning for the adjacent property to the south of the Cathedral for development as a Cathedral Center; containing a cloister, public gathering spaces, cathedral support functions, and new offices for the Dioceses. MCWB is proud to have been working with the Albany Diocese for over 50 years on maintenance, repair, restoration, and planning at the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception.
PHASE I: EXTERIOR RESTORATION
Phase I Research & Analysis
The Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception faced significant challenges due to the severe deterioration and delamination of its Portland brownstone exterior cladding. While the brick backup structure generally remained sound, the progressive decay of the brownstone posed a serious public safety hazard from falling stone that contributed to the building’s structural deterioration. The Diocese emphasized the need for long-term solutions to avoid deferring critical issues to short-term fixes. An extensive analysis of restoration options concluded that a comprehensive replacement of the brownstone masonry was the most viable solution.
Phase I Schematic Design
Phase I of the restoration focused on areas with the greatest deterioration and those necessary for replacing the upper roof. These areas included the clerestory walls, crenelated parapets, and the entire north tower.
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MCWB collaborated with the Building Research Establishment (BRE) to identify and test replacement stone options. After thorough research, St. Bee’s sandstone from the Cumbria region of England was selected for its durability and suitability.
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MCWB meticulously measured and created detailed shop drawings for each stone, specifying precise dimensions and shapes. A unique numbering system was developed to catalog each stone for competitive and accurate bidding. Additionally, a comprehensive database was compiled to facilitate pricing by bidders. This data was also used for tracking the fabrication, shipping and installation of the stone blocks.
Kerr Photography
Phase I Restoration
MCWB oversaw the construction process, ensuring precise execution and quality control:
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The firm prepared shop drawings and coordinated the direct purchase of stone materials for the Diocese. An on-site stone shop was established to fabricate and supply stones for installation, avoiding delays. The shop also produced complex elements, including clock tracery and the tower finial. Master mason Stephen Boyle led the stone shop, training apprentices through a banker mason program in collaboration with the local masons’ union.
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Over 12,000 blocks of new stone were fabricated and replaced during Phase I, revitalizing critical areas of the Cathedral while preserving its structural integrity and historical character.
In 2004, the slate roof was removed and replaced with a sheet lead roof and gutters. Lead roofing was recommended because of the similar appearance to the original tin-plated roof and for its proven longevity.
PHASE II: INTERIOR RESTORATION
Phase II Research & Analysis
Phase II of the restoration, completed in 2010, focused on the comprehensive renewal of the Cathedral’s interior. The planning and design process prioritized addressing the directives of the Second Vatican Council, ensuring the space met contemporary liturgical needs while preserving its historical significance.
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A detailed assessment of the building’s interior fabric was conducted to identify and address areas of deterioration.
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Paint samples were analyzed to uncover historical decorative elements, leading to the selection of a new scheme inspired by the Cathedral’s early design scheme, with faux stone patterning with joints scored in the plaster and a multi-shade tinted “wash” painting to replicate stone.
Phase II Schematic Design
The firm collaborated with liturgical consultants and the restoration committee to redesign the worship space, ensuring it met contemporary liturgical needs while enhancing functionality and oriented around a new projecting altar platform to accommodate the mandate to engage the congregation.
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Pews were rearranged and reconfigured to provide greater comfort and improve visibility.
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A new steel and concrete altar platform was constructed in the crossing, positioning the altar within the larger worship space to foster a stronger sense of connection and inclusivity for the congregation.
In participation with Quantum Engineering P.C. Inc., modern HVAC and electrical systems were developed to enhance the Cathedral’s functionality and efficiency.
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Radiator heating systems were repaired and insulated, and attic insulation was added to improve energy efficiency throughout the building.
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The electrical and lighting systems were completely replaced, with the existing Rambusch lighting sconces meticulously refurbished and reinstalled to preserve their historical significance.
Accessibility improvements included a ramp to the altar faced with repurposed original pew ends.
Photo Credits: Randall Perry
Phase II Restoration
The restoration process began with a detailed survey of plaster deterioration, carefully repairing sections that could be preserved and replacing those beyond repair with in-kind materials. As the damaged plaster was removed, hidden issues like compromised ceiling framing were uncovered and repaired to maintain the building’s structural integrity.
To enhance the aesthetic, a new decorative paint scheme was applied using a glazing technique that mimicked the elegant ashlar stone appearance, inspired by the Cathedral’s 19th century design. These upgrades seamlessly blend historical charm with modern functionality, ensuring the Cathedral remains both timeless and relevant.
Additional Restoration Projects
In 2012 the east front portals and staircase was completely replaced with new sandstone replicating the highly decorative carved stone entrance portals and with massive new granite steps.
In 2016 the large east front stained glass window and original wood tracery was completely restored and fitted with new secondary glazing system with bronze framing elements to protect the glass and wood elements.
Photo Credits: Randall Perry
Photo Credits: Randall Perry
Photo Credits: Randall Perry
