Major Renovation in Oklahoma – A Multi-Technique Approach to Historic Lighting Restoration
Grand Light is happy to share a new major restoration project for the Jim Thorpe Memorial Building in Oklahoma City, OK. This historic landmark has been undergoing a full-scale renovation since 2023, including the restoration of its many distinctive lighting fixtures.
Featuring a wider variety of fixture styles than a typical project, this restoration has required a diverse range of techniques to ensure each piece is returned to its original historic character. After safely transporting the fixtures to our Connecticut facility, our team conducted a thorough evaluation of all interior and exterior lights.
A key focus of the project has been the restoration of several tall exterior aluminum standing fixtures. Each unit required structural repairs, including precision welding to address areas of deterioration, as well as drilling and preparation for secure remounting.
Once structurally sound, the fixtures underwent a meticulous finishing process, where surfaces were refined and polished to restore the aluminum’s original appearance. Final cleaning was completed using both spray applications and detailed handwork to ensure every surface met our quality standards.
Once the fixture is cleaned and structurally sound, the appropriate custom LED retrofit system is implemented into each fixture.
In addition to restoration, our team was tasked with creating new components for the tops of these fixtures. Custom 3D models were created in designing new caps alongside Fresnel lenses, exploring multiple options before finalizing the best solution.
A full-scale 3D printed prototype was then produced to confirm fit and proportion, allowing us to move confidently into fabrication of the final aluminum components.
Stay tuned for more details on the 3D custom cap and custom LED Retrofit System as this restoration continues!
We are honored to be part of preserving the legacy of the Jim Thorpe Memorial Building and look forward to sharing further updates as this exciting project progresses.
For more information and future updates regarding the restoration of the historic lighting fixtures from this project and more, you may review our Historic Lighting Restoration & Custom Lighting Project Portfolio, and stay tuned for further updates on our socials.
Recent Projects: 
About Post Author
