Rudge Chapel at Wyuka Cemetery
Scope of Work
Berggren Architects worked on the restoration of the Rudge Chapel
Location
Lincoln, NE
History
Rudge Chapel was built in 1938 and designed by Davis & Wilson Architects.
Completion
The second phase was completed in 2022.
The Challenge
Excessive moisture significantly damaged the plaster work and rose window stone frame of the chapel. It was determined that the moisture had two primary sources, the first being a natural slope of the soil that directed water to the south side of the chapel and the second being severe moisture build-up in the front corner towers of the chapel which had consequently damaged the rose window.
The Strategy
Due to financial constraints the two projects were initiated separately. Phase 1 included regrading and shaping of the soil to redirect the natural water flow around the building, excavating the foundation wall to install a damp proofing and foundation drainage system, and replacement of the front walk of the chapel.
The second phase attacked the moisture buildup in the towers. Work entailed penetrating the horizontal concrete slabs inside the towers, providing ventilation shafts from the bottom of the towers to existing perimeter tunnels, and the installation of a ventilation and dehumidification system to draw air through the shafts.
The Results
This work has helped to restore the Rudge Memorial Chapel to its original glory and reestablished its place in the history of Wyuka Cemetery. Future phases will replace the slate roof and repoint the stone masonry of the chapel.
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Our Process
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