Frank Lloyd Wright's Unity Temple

Unity Temple, designed by master architect Frank Lloyd Wright and widely considered one of the most important and influential buildings of the 20th century, underwent an extensive $25 million restoration and renovation beginning in 2015. The landmark Oak Park, Illinois building reopened in summer 2017 following the comprehensive two-year effort.

As part of the restoration team, EverGreene conservators and craftspeople were responsible for restoring the Temple’s distinctive interior finishes while preserving Wright’s original design intent. Extensive analysis revealed that the historic sand plaster was integral to the appearance of the interiors. Because of the translucency of the original paint, the texture, color, and composition of the plaster substrate contributed significantly to the character and depth of the finished surfaces.

EverGreene identified a sand that closely matched the original material and developed mock-ups using a plaster recipe informed by laboratory analysis. Paint-removal testing determined that the original surfaces could not be successfully uncovered to provide reliable samples of the historic finishes. Rather than risk damage to the surviving fabric, the team developed a carefully controlled treatment approach. Existing plaster was stabilized and skim coated where appropriate, and new plaster and finish applications were used to replicate the texture, tonality, and visual qualities of Wright’s historic interiors.

Through rigorous analysis, testing, mock-ups, and skilled craftsmanship, EverGreene helped restore the subtle material character that is fundamental to the experience of Unity Temple.