University of Michigan Ruthven Hall Bronze Doors

An elegant set of Art Deco bronze doors lead to the rotunda of Ruthann Hall on the campus of the University of Michigan. Until recently, it housed the Natural History Museum, which is reflected in the flora and fauna depicted in the borders of the exuberant castings and stone surrounds. During a conversion of the space to University Administrative offices the doors were restored and brought to current code requirements including power activated closers.

EverGreene worked with Hartman Cox Architects to reconfigure the doors as needed to accommodate the hardware, to fit the door leaves to the new elevation and restore any lost or damaged bronze elements. Work included fabrication of a replica bronze fascia on the interior to hide the new closers. All bronzes were repatinated to a beautiful weathered green and blend the new castings with the aged originals. Glass panes were replaced with safety glazing as well.