Restoring the Gloversville Library’s Beaux Art Facade
The library in Gloversville, NY was built in 1904 in the Beaux-Arts Style of architecture, which is defined by its decadent exterior and domed entranceway. The renovations that are currently underway officially began in 2017, but plans have been in the works for over a decade. The scope of this project will improve their facility by increasing their capacity, restoring the outer facade, and ensuring the entire building is accessible for all people.
Boston Valley Terra Cotta has been working with the Gloversville Public Library to restore the outer facade. In the factory, original pieces of the building are used as references to create replicas. The originals are documented on site and used in the process of reproduction as a part of our Pre-Design Services.
The masonry units have been created using molds and our hand pressed and slip cast forming methods. After the units take form, they are taken into the finishing department to receive any texture application. Specific pieces featuring letterforms that adorn the top of the Gloversville Library or other fine details are refined into their final form.
A detail of an ornamental terra cotta unit in the factory used to create an exact replica of the original.
Other original pieces featuring letters which spell out the library’s name.
Several terra cotta masonry units after they have undergone textural application in the finishing department.
A large terra cotta masonry unit featuring a textured finish.
An elegant uppercase letter ‘R’ will adorn the outer facade to spell out, “Gloversville Free Library.”
