Designed by noted Philadelphia architects Mitchell/Giurgola Architects in 1961, the Walnut 32 Garage is designated as “Distinguished 1” by the University of Pennsylvania’s internal ranking system of significant campus buildings. The completed structure, an exemplification of mid-century modern design, displays Louis Kahn and Le Ricolais’ influence on the firm, won M/GA widespread acclaim from diverse sources, including a gold medal from the AIA Philadelphia chapter in 1964. Keast & Hood addressed the structure’s various levels of deterioration from moisture intrusion, aging, and other environmental factors, while respectively restoring the garage in concert with the architect’s original design intent...
Designed by noted Philadelphia architects Mitchell/Giurgola Architects in 1961, the Walnut 32 Garage is designated as “Distinguished 1” by the University of Pennsylvania’s internal ranking system of significant campus buildings. The completed structure, an exemplification of mid-century modern design, displays Louis Kahn and Le Ricolais’ influence on the firm, won M/GA widespread acclaim from diverse sources, including a gold medal from the AIA Philadelphia chapter in 1964. Keast & Hood addressed the structure’s various levels of deterioration from moisture intrusion, aging, and other environmental factors, while respectively restoring the garage in concert with the architect’s original design intent.
As the prime consultant for façade renovations to Walnut 32, Keast & Hood examined levels of deterioration common to garages over 50 years old. The façade was very sensitive to repairs due to the limited palette and visibility of every alteration to the concrete façade. Security measures as required by the university’s Department of Public Safety presented a challenge. Keast & Hood and their consultant, Paul Steege & Associates, researched appropriate screens as options to replace fencing and reduce required maintenance while being sensitive to the garage’s design. Keast & Hood chose black steel panels to create a dark background “void” for the light-colored structural trusses. Concrete surfaces were cleaned, repaired, and coated to blend repair areas with the existing concrete.
CLIENT: University of Pennsylvania
LOCATION: Philadelphia, PA
TYPE: Academic, Commercial, SERVICES: Condition Assessment, Restoration, MATERIALS: Concrete, SUSTAINABILITY: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Completed project photography © Jeffrey Totaro | B&W Historical Image © University of Pennsylvania Archives
