G.A.R. Memorial

Aurora, Illinois
2016 Summer
(Professional)

Bluestone + Associates

Role in Project:
Concept Design, Rendering, Detail Design, Construction Documents,

Project Lead:
Paul Bluestone

Graphic Design Lead:
Aditi Singh

Fabricator:
Benvenuti and Stein

Completed in 1878, The Grand Army of the Republic Memorial Hall was erected as a memorial for Civil War veterans in Aurora Illinois. To better serve the public, the building also acted as a gather place and library.

With one and a half century of history, the building had gone through multiple transformations ranging from addition, threat of demolition, and, now, restoration.

As a critical part of the restoration process, Bluestone + Associate was commissioned to restore the eight book shelves from 1878 and design an exhibit to pass on the story of this staple in American history.

Throughout the design process, the book shelves were maticulously documented for parts replacement and replication. Fine adjustments were made to incorporate display, lighting, and audio elements.