Historic Landmark Restoration Project
Aa prominent historic landmark located in the heart of Philadelphia city. Designed by renowned architect John Haviland in 1821, the building originally served as an Episcopal church for 100 years. In 1922, it was purchased by the Greek Orthodox community of Philadelphia and was elevated to cathedral status a few years later.
Over the years, the cathedral has faithfully served its congregation, but in recent decades it became clear that renovations were necessary. In 2008, Historic Building Architects LLC, led by Annabelle Radcliffe-Trenner, a leading preservation architect, conducted a feasibility study to develop a comprehensive restoration plan.
A subsequent site visit by Michiel Brouns, founder of Brouns & Co, together with Annabelle Radcliffe-Trenner, helped establish both the restoration approach and long-term measures to prevent future deterioration. It was determined that traditional paint materials—similar to those originally used in the 19th century—should be specified.
During the most recent phase of work, the grand front columns, along with the main door, were carefully restored. The modern paint previously applied to the columns had begun to flake and crack, allowing moisture to penetrate and damage the wood beneath—a problem also affecting the main door.
The columns and door were stripped and repainted using linseed oil paint. Brouns & Co Cambridge No. 7 was selected for the columns, while the door was finished in Brouns & Co Blackout, with gold gilding applied to the decorative inserts. The restoration work was completed by Stone & Lime, under the direction of Brian Kelly.
