Restoration of the Vizcaya M&G Tea House, Tea House Bridge & Service Entrance Pergola

The Tradesmen Group LLC (TTG) was selected in 2020 by Vizcaya Museum & Garden, located on Biscayne Bay in Miami, FL, to restore the Tea House, Tea House bridge, and service entrance pergola. These structures had suffered significant damage from Hurricane Irma in 2017, compounded by years of deferred maintenance.

This comprehensive restoration project showcased TTG’s intricate architectural preservation, millwork fabrication, and structural rehabilitation expertise.

Tea House Restoration

  • Complete restoration with 100% removal and replacement of all architectural millwork
  • Extensive removal of stucco finishes and repairs to the primary concrete structure
  • Fabrication of new millwork from salvaged old-growth California redwood
  • Utilization of laser scans, 3-D modeling, and shop drawings for exact reproduction of original details
  • Restoration of lattice dome, entablature, cornice, treillage, and latticework
  • Application of high-performance multi-component paint system to millwork

Stucco and Concrete Restoration

  • Reproduction of radius profiles to match existing stucco profiles
  • Application of lime-based coating after stucco repairs
  • Concrete crack repairs
  • Forming and pouring new concrete with new rebar to replace severely spalled and deteriorated conditions

Bridge and Site Work

  • Replacement of architectural coral stone on the bridge
  • Stone repairs and tuckpointing
  • Masonry cleaning
  • Restoration of metal railings
  • Replacement of electrical service and lighting to the Tea House

Pergola Restoration

  • Complete replacement of the pergola using salvaged redwood
  • Repairs to stucco, floor tile, and masonry columns of the pergola entrance

The Tradesmen Group demonstrated its exceptional capability in executing complex historic restoration projects involving multiple architectural elements and materials. As the Prime Contractor, TTG showcased its comprehensive in-house preservation services and ability to manage multifaceted restoration work.

Key aspects of TTG’s role included:

  • Executing diverse restoration techniques for different materials (wood, stucco, concrete, stone)
  • Implementing advanced technology for precise replication of historical architectural elements
  • Sourcing and working with specialized materials like salvaged old-growth redwood
  • Balancing historical accuracy with modern performance requirements (e.g., high-performance paint systems)
  • Managing a project scope that encompassed structural rehabilitation, decorative restoration, and site improvements

This project underscores TTG’s commitment to preserving America’s architectural heritage through meticulous craftsmanship and innovative restoration techniques. Our successful execution of the Vizcaya Museum & Garden Tea House restoration further solidifies TTG’s position as a leader in historic preservation, capable of addressing complex restoration needs while ensuring the longevity and authenticity of significant cultural landmarks.

 

Client

Vizcaya Museum & Garden Trust, Inc.

Location

Miami, FL

Services Performed

Architectural Metals, Carpentry, Concrete, Masonry Restoration, Painting & More

Sector

Community

Award

Dade Heritage Trust Preservation Award

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