Location
Louisville, Kentucky
Type
Historic Restoration
Client
Louisville Water Company
Size
8,400 sf

Every decision reflects the shared commitment of the Louisville Water Company and KNBA to preserving the historical significance of the Louisville Water tower, Pumping Station No. 1, the WaterWorks Museum & Grand Hall.


In 2020, Louisville Water Company contacted K. Norman Berry Associates Architects to assist in preserving the historic Louisville Water Tower and Pumping Station No. 1. The Water Company has a long history of dedication to this Louisville landmark and wanted to take steps to preserve it for future generations. KNBA partnered with historic conservation specialist Stephen J. Kelley to thoroughly evaluate the material conditions of the brick masonry base, the wood balustrade with cast zinc statues, and the steel tower shaft to develop a plan for the necessary repairs and improvements.

The historic statues were carefully removed for restoration, the wood balustrade was replaced with weather-resistant material, and damaged sheet metal components were removed and replaced with custom fabricated metal components in compatible materials to minimize future deterioration. The entire structure of the Water Tower and Pumping Station No. 1 received a new comprehensive exterior paint coating after lead abatement and repairs were completed. The Water Tower interior was abated, recoated and improved ventilation systems were implemented to ensure both safety and the preservation of the structure. Within the Grand Hall of Pumping Station No. 1, KNBA worked with acoustic consultant Todd Berling, of Harvey Marshall Berling Associates, to engineer the installation of acoustical wall panels and an acoustical plaster ceiling to elevate the space into a versatile event venue for community events, meetings and receptions. Other strategic enhancements, such as drainage improvements and interior renovations for safety and functionality, further fortified the structures against time’s effects while preserving their historical significance and enduring legacy.

One significant aspect of the restoration journey was the transformative acoustic improvements achieved in the Grand Hall of Pumping Station No. 1. Under the guidance of Todd Berling, a consultant specializing in theatre, acoustics, and AV, Louisville Water Company invested in state-of-the-art sound engineering techniques. These included the addition of BASWA Phon™ acoustical plaster on the ceiling and architectural acoustical panels on the walls above the upper mezzanine. Alongside isolation mounts and HVAC equipment adjustments, these enhancements effectively control reverberation and minimize unwanted noise, ensuring acoustic clarity and richness of audio while preserving the architectural heritage of the space. Consequently, the Grand Hall has been elevated into a more versatile venue, suitable for community-held events, gatherings, performances, and celebrations.

Click the link below to learn more about additional restorations KNBA completed for the Louisville Water Company.

Recognition


  • 2024 AIA Citation Award Winner

“Clearly a landmark worth saving. The Louisville Water Tower and Museum speak of a time when public works were truly celebrated, and the restoration of these features was lovingly carried through. The adaptive use of the space as a museum draws visitors to engage in the honorable mission of this facility and revel in the engaging historic details.” ~ AIA Jury