Lincoln Center for Performing Arts, New York, New York

The David H. Koch Theater (formerly the New York State Theater) was built in 1964. Designed by renowned architect Philip Johnson, the theater is one of the anchors of Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts. The vast swaths of travertine and glass are offset by a wide program of decorative metals, including architectural bronze window mullions, light fixtures, playbill cases, doors and door frames. The signature feature is a multi-story series of railings and highly decorative inset panels which encircle the atrium.

From 2008-2009 the theater has undergone a major renovation and restoration. Conservation Solutions, Inc. (CSI) was contracted in 2009 to perform a finishes investigation, prepare on-site mock-ups, and write specifications pertinent to the restoration of significant decorative metals. The goals were to identify the range of metals and finishes present, including those which might be historic, and to demonstrate different levels of treatment

The decorative metals exhibited wear and deterioration commensurate with decades of use. All surfaces were generally soiled with dust. Surfaces had become abraded in predicable areas of repeated use, removing finishes and revealing bright metal. Protective coatings were beginning to degrade and fail. Finishes had been marred by repeated scratches and adhesive residue.

Through careful examination and cleaning tests, CSI identified the panels as being fabricated from ferrous wire, brazed with brass to create the complex “splatter pattern” design, and lacquered. The accompanying stanchions, railings, fascia plates, etc. were fabricated from architectural bronze and treated with a directional oxide finish, which CSI conservators were able to replicate. Treatment recommendations were tailored to reflect varying cost, scheduling, and aesthetic preferences.

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