Gracino Corp. completes three restoration projects in Manhattan

Challenging projects at three early 20th century N.Y. landmarks got attention this year from the Graciano Corp.'s specialists in historic-masonry restoration, new-masonry construction and concrete restoration. "From the West 66th St. Armory to the Waldorf=Astoria Motor Court to Wagner College on Staten Island, each of these projects has demanded very high-level skills under tight deadlines," said Graciano VP and general manager Tom Corbo. "The Graciano team has earned a reputation for masonry and concrete craftsmanship over almost a century of high-profile work on irreplaceable structures in and around Manhattan," Corbo said. "There's no such thing as a routine project in New York. Each one has a unique twist of its own." At the West 66th St. Armory, Graciano artisans are completing a five-month program of masonry restoration, repointing, waterproofing and general restoration, working to exacting historical standards. Mortar, stucco and other materials all were chosen to replicate the original appearance of the five-story structure, which was built in 1903. According to Corbo, the project will be completed, on schedule, by December 31st, including the rebuilding of parapets. In September, at the Waldorf=Astoria Motor Court, a Graciano team began installation of new limestone and granite veneers inside the 1931 hotel's motor court. The work, which involves removal of various outdated surface materials on walls and columns, is scheduled for completion in spring 2013. Also in September, on Staten Island, Graciano craftsmen completed masonry and parapet restoration at Wagner College's Main Hall. The original assignment called for restoration, waterproofing and exterior cleaning of the 1929 precast concrete structure. This also includes gothic-style turrets that flank the entrance. The team replaced the dome and completed the work on schedule, with only intermittent, precautionary interruptions of Main Hall classroom and office activities. With offices in New York, New Jersey and Pittsburgh, Graciano Corporation is respected nationwide for its expertise in historic restoration and preservation. Some of the company's recent projects in Manhattan include significant restoration work at the Brooklyn Academy of Music, the Cloisters, Moynihan Station, MetLife Tower, Rockefeller Center, the Apollo Theater, and the Whispering Gallery at Grand Central Terminal. Celebrating 95 years in business, Graciano President Glenn Foglio stated, "It is truly an honor for Graciano to play a continuing role in renewing the beauty of New York's historic landmarks." Graciano has earned numerous awards from such organizations: New York Landmarks Conservancy, International Masonry Institute, the International Union of Bricklayers and Allied Craftworkers.