EverGreeneArchitectural Arts
Grand Central Terminal Celestial Ceiling
Our master artisans restored the iconic 12,000-square-foot zodiac mural, applying 23.75k gold leaf to 2,500 stars that mirror the winter night sky. The 1996-1998 restoration stands as our defining achievement in decorative artistry.
Conservation Science
Where art meets science. Our in-house laboratory combines cutting-edge analytical techniques with time-honored conservation principles to preserve the integrity of historic decorative finishes for future generations.
Laboratory Analysis
Grand Central Ceiling Investigation
Our laboratory conducted comprehensive analysis of the Main Concourse ceiling, identifying 12 distinct paint campaigns spanning from 1913 to 1998. Cross-section analysis revealed the original 1913 color palette, enabling historically accurate restoration of the celestial mural.
Materials Analysis
Advanced microscopy and spectroscopic analysis to identify original pigments, binders, and substrates in historic decorative finishes.
Conservation Chemistry
Custom-formulated cleaning solutions and consolidation treatments developed in our laboratory for sensitive historic materials.
Condition Documentation
Comprehensive photographic and written documentation following AIC guidelines, creating a permanent record of conservation interventions.
Preventive Conservation
Environmental monitoring, protective coatings, and maintenance protocols to extend the life of restored architectural elements.
Solvent Research
Ongoing research into green chemistry alternatives and safe solvent systems for the cleaning of delicate painted surfaces.
Climate Assessment
Evaluation of HVAC systems and microclimate conditions to identify risks to historic decorative finishes.
“The greatest service we can provide to history is to ensure that what remains is truly what was.”
Materials & Science
At the intersection of heritage conservation and cutting-edge materials science, our laboratories pioneer analytical techniques that reveal the secrets of historic decorative finishes—and develop solutions to preserve them for centuries.
Celestial Ceiling Gold Leaf Analysis
Our laboratory conducted comprehensive metallurgical analysis of the Main Concourse ceiling, revealing a complex history of gilding campaigns. Cross-section analysis identified the original 1913 23.75k gold leaf (98.5% Au, 1.5% Ag) versus the 1940s zinc-based overpaints that darkened over decades.
Dome & Rotunda Conservation Science
The Capitol Dome restoration required unprecedented materials analysis. Our team developed custom XRF mapping protocols to assess the cast iron substrate beneath layers of lead paint and gold leaf. Brumidi's frescoes in the Rotunda underwent multispectral imaging to reveal original pigments beneath 150 years of varnish.
Pigment Analysis
Chromatographic Investigation
High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) identify organic pigments and binding media at the molecular level.
“Understanding the molecular composition of historic materials is the foundation of ethical conservation.”
Decorative Artistry
Our atelier of master artisans preserves centuries-old techniques while embracing innovation. From the gilded heavens of Grand Central to intimate historic interiors, we bring unparalleled artistry to every project.
The Celestial Ceiling
The restoration of Grand Central Terminal's Main Concourse ceiling represents our finest achievement in decorative artistry. Our artisans applied over 12,000 square feet of gold leaf to recreate the iconic celestial mural, featuring 2,500 stars that mirror the winter night sky. The project required developing custom techniques to apply gold leaf overhead while maintaining the historic integrity of the 1913 design.
Gold Leaf Gilding
Traditional water gilding and oil gilding techniques using 23.75k gold leaf for domes, ceilings, and ornamental details.
Decorative Painting
Marbleizing, wood graining, scagliola, and trompe l'oeil executed by master artisans trained in European traditions.
Mural Painting
Historic mural restoration and new mural commissions, from canvas consolidation to in-situ conservation.
ornamental Plaster
Restoration and replication of historic plaster ornament, including scagliola columns and decorative cornices.
Stenciling
Hand-cut stencil reproduction and historic stencil restoration based on documentary evidence and physical analysis.
Specialty Finishes
Custom metallic finishes, glazing, patination, and artistic treatments for unique architectural elements.
Our artisans are available for consultation on historic and new decorative projects.
Commission Our ArtistsMonumental Restoration
For over four decades, we have been entrusted with America's most significant architectural landmarks. From the celestial heavens of Grand Central to the hallowed halls of the US Capitol, our work preserves the built heritage that defines our national identity.
Grand Central Terminal
Main Concourse ceiling restoration, 12,000 sq ft gold leaf application, 2,500 stars gilded
The restoration of Grand Central's iconic zodiac ceiling required our master artisans to develop custom scaffolding systems and gilding techniques. We analyzed 47 paint samples to identify the original 1913 color palette, then applied genuine gold leaf to recreate the celestial mural.
Government Buildings
State Capitols, courthouses, and municipal buildings restored to their original grandeur.
Transportation Hubs
Historic train stations, airports, and transit centers preserved for future travelers.
Sacred Spaces
Churches, synagogues, mosques, and temples restored with reverence and expertise.
Theaters & Palaces
Historic theaters and movie palaces returned to their golden age splendor.
Commercial Landmarks
Historic hotels, department stores, and office buildings revitalized.
Museums & Libraries
Cultural institutions preserved for the education and inspiration of generations.