Denver, Colorado

The restoration of the state capitol drum and dome began in 2010 and took four years to complete. Structural analysis revealed that less than 1 percent of the cast iron dome and drum pieces had to be replicated. The majority of the structures were stripped of decades of paint, cleaned, and repainted. Rusted elements of steel armature supporting cast iron pieces were replaced as needed, and the overall understructure strengthened. Historic windows were rebuilt, and hundreds of damaged copper shingles were replaced and gilded with over 60 ounces of new 24-karat gold leaf. Every step of the project was designed to protect and preserve the dome, restore safety, and aid in future care for decades to come.