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The F.M. Kirby Center’s main entrance is a two-story,
steel-framed structure, clad with glazed architectural
terra-cotta. Above the second floor ceiling a 10 ft+ (3
m) high attic, along with a central tower topped by a 10 ft ±
(3m) parapet, combine to make the structure’s total height
equivalent to five stories. The building’s design follows
the art deco style of architecture which was popular during
the early 20th century.
Hundreds of original terra-cotta panels were restored with a
proprietary repair system. This work, including sounding and
removal of debonded glaze, surface preparation, patching,
application of base-coat color, and hand-dabbing with
highlight colors to achieve the original appearance of the
mottled terra-cotta finish, was completed by the contractor.
When complete, original terra-cotta glaze, patched surfaces,
and glass fiber-reinforced concrete (GFRC) provided a seamless
approximation of the original facade.
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