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.