Olean’s First National Bank

Overview

As a key subcontractor in the restoration of the historic First National Bank in Olean, NY, our team played an instrumental role in preserving the building’s architectural heritage. Prior to the bid process, we conducted exploratory investigations and collaborated with the project team to select a material that would replicate the building’s original terra cotta parapet.

This early collaboration ensured a seamless restoration plan. Awarded the masonry restoration work, we rebuilt 150 linear feet of parapet using CMU blocks clad in custom-fabricated fiberglass-reinforced polymer (FRP), perfectly replicating the historic terra cotta design. Despite the challenges of reproducing the intricate details of the original cornice, our efforts contributed to the revitalization of a structure that had been vacant for over two decades. The completed project transformed the building into 22 market-rate apartments with commercial spaces, earning accolades for its excellence in historic preservation.

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Project Highlights

  • Scope: Rebuilt 150 linear feet of parapet.
  • Services Provided: Exploratory investigations, material selection, masonry restoration.
  • Materials Used: Custom-fabricated FRP cladding to mimic terra cotta.
  • Impact: Supported the adaptive reuse of a historic building, now housing 22 apartments and commercial spaces.
  • Recognition: Contributed to an award-winning project honored by the Preservation League of New York State.