Restoration Work Continues on the Royal Thai Pavilion
The team of technicians and artisans from KALAM, with extensive experience in building restoration and heritage conservation, is carrying out a significant intervention on the Royal Thai Pavilion, located in the Olbrich Botanical Gardens in Madison, Wisconsin, USA.
The pavilion, gifted by the government of Thailand in 2001, is a prominent example of traditional Thai architecture and required this restoration work to ensure its preservation.
Following the completion of the first phase, which involved restoring the roof, our specialized team is now focusing on the restoration of the decorative elements present in its wooden structure.
The progress on the building is remarkable and has attracted the attention of media outlets, as well as professionals who are following the restoration through various site visits.
The impact of the project has been highlighted by The Journal Times, which published a detailed report on the restoration’s progress. The article, accompanied by a video (included in this news piece), provides an in-depth view of the process and emphasizes the importance of preserving this Thai cultural symbol on American soil.
The restoration of the gold leaf, a highly visible part of the ornamentation on the various elements that make up the pavilion, is one of the key aspects of the second phase of this project. This work requires meticulous execution and a deep understanding of traditional techniques, ensuring that the gilding is restored to its original splendor while preserving its authenticity.
This new stage also includes work on other decorative elements, such as the glass mosaic pieces that are integrated into various areas and decorative structures. Their restoration is being carried out with respect for the original techniques and materials used in their construction.
The previous phase, carried out largely during the winter, involved various tasks on the roof, such as the renewal of the ceramic tiles. For this, tiles identical to the originals were used, but with a crucial improvement: they were manufactured to withstand Wisconsin’s extreme weather conditions. The tiles were produced in Valencia, Spain, and exported to the United States. This update is key to ensuring the pavilion’s preservation, maintaining its structure and appearance for many years to come. Additionally, the lead coverings, also present on the roof, were restored.
Kalam’s work on the Royal Thai Pavilion reinforces its position as a leading company in heritage restoration on an international level. With their experience in complex projects, their team of professionals ensures the preservation of unique and historic cultural assets, allowing structures like this to continue being appreciated by future generations.
