The book-matched white marble
wainscoting around the perimeter of the room and on the
free-standing columns will be restored to their original state
using a marble called Italian Statuary. According to Robert Staats
of Carthage Marble Corporation, five of the eight marble columns
bore some damage. "Marble tends to change color over the
years," explained Staats. "However, the Italian Statuary
will allow us a tine restoration."
As a
final touch of elegance to the room, gold leafing was applied to
the column capitals, the perimeter of the 15-foot ceiling, the
sconces and chandeliers. Ron Goens explained the process of gold
leafing. "We use 23 carat gold. Each area to receive the gold
leaf is painted gold and then sized with a resinous varnish to
enhance the gold adhesion. The sheet gold of extra fineness is
applied by pressing the sheet onto the area and rubbing; then the
leafing background paper is carefully removed. Edges are sharpened
up by brushing away the loose gold, and a clear finish is applied
to complete the process."
Events
have already been scheduled, anticipating the completion of the
renovation. The Grand Avenue Ball Room, revitalized in elegance
and beauty, will be a valued asset to downtown Kansas City.
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