Cobb Gate Renovation

Project Details

Project Description

Cobb Gate is considered by many to be the main entrance to The University of Chicago. Built in 1900 of Indiana limestone it was a gift from architect Henry Ives Cobb. A campus icon, the gate is embellished with gargoyles and other stone carvings. On axis from the main library to the historic quadrangle, Cobb Gate is a key element of campus circulation.
The walking slope through Cobb Gate exceeded permissible accessible slopes. Revising the path to meet an appropriate walking grade without handrails required:

• Redesign of stone entry steps and iron handrails for two flanking buildings within the gate.
• New limestone panels to cover rubble foundation exposed by lowered grade.
• Thoughtful detailing of new stonework at foundation and steps to reflect original design intent.
• Lowering the roof and floor of an underground utility tunnel beneath the gate.
• Sensitive selection of new paving materials and sizes.
• Removal and restoration to working condition of original iron gates.
• Extremely detailed analysis and coordination of north-south running slope and east-west slopes to meet requirements while also meeting existing walk at north and at 56th street.