As part of the University's efforts to preserve the historic architecture of the Lawn, steps are underway to restore the unique roofing structure that crowns Jefferson's pavilions. The current roofing restoration of Pavilion IV is scheduled to be completed by Convocation, finishing a 21-year series of restorations.
According to Brian Hogg, senior historic preservation planner in the Office of the Architect, the original discovery of Jeffersonian shingles on Pavilion X was the impetus for the restoration process.
Jody Lahendro, historic preservation architect in Facilities Management, said the Jeffersonian metal shingles are unique to the University.
"A system of sheet metal shingles were cut and lapped at their edges so that they crimp into the next shingle," Lahendro said. "It was very radical for the time, and they still are very radical and different."
Hogg said the repair work on the pavilion roofs is undertaken as problems occur. In October, Pavilion IV showed signs of leakage, and construction began shortly thereafter.
Facilities Management is cooperating with Politics Prof. Larry Sabato, who resides in Pavilion IV, to complete this specific renovation.
According to Lahendro, the intricacies of the shingle work have made this particular project a lengthy undertaking. Each one of the shingles is hand-cut, hand-crimped and interlocked with the adjacent continuous shingles "like a puzzle."
"Any work on the Lawn takes special care and consideration and, thus, takes longer than work elsewhere," Lahendro said.
Sabato made reference to some of the side effects of the repairs but also noted the importance of the project.
"It's been a noisy eight months," he said, adding that "These pavilions are a national treasure, and they have to be preserved."
In an event sponsored by the University Guide Service last night, Hogg led a discussion on the steps of the Rotunda regarding the historic preservation of the Lawn.
He mentioned plans to replace the Chinese trellis rails above the colonnades. He also noted informal discussion of repainting portions of the Lawn's architecture to better reflect paint colors available at the time of the initial construction. For instance, because jet-white was not available during Jefferson's era, Hogg proposed using a beige or off-white color to be more "authentic".
Hogg pointed out the scaffolding in front of Pavilion IV during his speech. While acknowledging that it changes the look of the Lawn, he said he hopes the construction reflects positively on the University's preservation effort.
"My hope is that it shows the University is being a good steward of these incredibly magnificent buildings," he said.
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