Restoring The Lobby Columns In The Twin Towers Place
Heritage Restoration revamped two lobby columns at Twin Towers Place in Peoria, IL, addressing water damage with a custom drainage system. The new design features obsidian-hued facades, LED lighting, and structural enhancements that blend with the existing architecture. This renovation modernized the space while protecting it from future water issues.
Project Overview
Heritage Restoration & Design Studio was commissioned to restore and resurface two prominent lobby columns at Twin Towers Place, the tallest building in Peoria. The columns had suffered extensive water damage due to moisture intrusion into their hollow interiors. In response, a new design was developed to both enhance the visual appeal of the space and integrate a concealed drainage system to manage rainwater effectively.
Project Scope and Execution
Background
The original column façades were composed of mirrored panels, which had significantly deteriorated over time. The resulting water damage had become visibly apparent, posing both an aesthetic concern and a long-term maintenance issue. Recognizing the need for a durable and attractive solution, the building’s management enlisted Heritage Restoration to design and install new architectural facades with integrated water management features.
Design Solution
Heritage’s approach involved constructing a new shell around the structural steel supports of each column. Hidden within this shell is a discreet yet functional drainage system, consisting of a rain pan and pump assembly, designed to redirect water away from the columns and their foundations.
To maintain a sleek and modern aesthetic, the outer surfaces of the columns were clad in high-resolution panels with a deep obsidian finish—selected to complement the existing lobby stonework. Vertical aluminum brackets with a subtle tint were installed to protect the edges of the panel system while adding a refined visual accent.
Architectural Detailing
The base and crown of each column were fabricated from treated lumber, carefully stained and finished to match the warm tones of the adjacent ceiling. To further enhance the space, an LED lighting system was integrated into the crown caps. These programmable LEDs allow for color customization, enabling seasonal lighting themes such as red and green for the holiday season.
Completion
Installation of the new column facades and integrated drainage systems was completed in March 2023. The updated design not only resolved the structural concerns but also added a visually striking feature to the building’s main entrance. The finished project can be viewed at 123 SW Jefferson Ave in downtown Peoria, IL.
