Project Overview

• 21-story building constructed in 1924
• 600 LF of steel removed, repaired, and reinstalled
• 400 LF of new steel installed
• Project completed four months ahead of schedule

As 7 East Redwood approached its centennial, the 21-story historic Beaux-Arts landmark began experiencing falling terracotta debris from the cornice. The condition prompted a façade restoration effort focused on safety, preservation, and long-term durability.

Following an investigation, the project team determined that long-term water intrusion had caused significant corrosion within the cornice’s embedded steel framework. Working closely with Building Envelope Consultants and Scientists (BECS), STRUCTURAL developed and implemented a repair approach that restored the structural integrity of the historic façade while preserving its original Beaux-Arts detailing.

To access and repair the deteriorated steel, sections of the surrounding cementitious material and terracotta had to be removed.  STRUCTURAL collaborated with BECS and specialty restoration partners to perform 3D scanning of the façade and create custom molds for replacement terracotta components, helping ensure the restored elements matched the building’s historic appearance.   The team also engineered and installed a new suspension method, allowing the terracotta to be safely hung from the rehabilitated steel to support the restored cornice.

Located in a dense downtown Baltimore environment, the project required strict safety protocols throughout construction to protect pedestrians and the surrounding public. Through close collaboration between the owner, engineer, and restoration team, the façade rehabilitation was completed four months ahead of schedule. The completed repairs helped preserve the architectural character of 7 East Redwood while extending the service life of a prominent historic landmark in Baltimore’s skyline.