SOLUTION

Drawing on geological and thin-stone cladding engineering expertise, WJE developed a comprehensive testing and evaluation program to assess stone strength, material variability, and weathering performance in Chicago’s severe climate. The findings shaped project specifications, including thickness requirements, engineering accommodations beyond industry standards, procedures for identifying and treating aesthetically objectionable inherent minerals, and testing protocols during fabrication.

While more uniform stone was chosen for the Forum and Library buildings, the Tapestry Granite selected for the Museum tower ranks among the most geologically complex stones available, containing up to ten distinct stone-forming features or interfaces with differing performance characteristics. Its selection at OPC marks the first time this material has been used in exterior cladding applications at the panel sizes required for the project. WJE provided stone production testing and consulting throughout fabrication and installation.

In parallel, as building enclosure consultant, our designs incorporated blindside and post-applied sheet waterproofing systems below grade; hot, rubberized asphalt waterproofing beneath roofs, plaza decks, and landscape assemblies; a vapor-impermeable fluid-applied water-resistive barrier on cast-in-place concrete backup walls; and self-adhered modified bitumen and stainless steel flashings. WJE also prepared project specifications and provided construction observation and administration services throughout construction.

Together, WJE’s contributions support the long-term durability, weather resistance, and architectural integrity of one of the most significant U.S. cultural projects of the 21st century.