Renovation of buildings is a pleasant experience; whilst at the same time changing the living space and workspace in a big way. This is why building renovations are popular throughout the world. However, sometimes they go over budget! Here are some of the most expensive building renovations in history:
- Angkor Wat Temple in Cambodia
Angkor Wat Temple in Cambodia is one of the most stunning Hindu temples in the world, but it has experienced a lot of damage over the past few centuries. The renovation project took place from June 2008 to September 2011 and was sponsored by the Italian government and the APSARA National Authority. The combination of the cost of renovating this building is around $ 1.20 million.
- Golden Gate Bridge, San Francisco
The renovation of the Golden Gate Bridge includes paintings of all the cables, and when this was carried out, it was the first repaint since the bridge began operation in 1937. Also, a four-foot public safety fence was added between 2001 and 2003 to make it more accessible to visitors. Another important part of the renovation of this building is to make this globally-recognised bridge more resistant to earthquakes.
- The Brady Theatre, Tulsa
The Brady Theatre in Tulsa, Oklahoma, is one of the most historic places in the region and was built in 1914 as a centre for performing arts. Since its completion, it was renovated in 1930 and 1952 to improve the viewing area. In 1930, a world-famous architect was given the job for the renovation of this building and he mostly worked on the interior. Additional structure was completed in 1952, when two lobbies were added. With an estimated cost of $ 22 million, Brady Theatre is definitely one of the most expensive building renovations in history. Have confidence in sticking to the budget with your renovations with Construction Companies In Hertfordshire like www.ashmereconstruction.co.uk/
- St. Cathedral Paul, London
One of the biggest landmarks in London, St. Paul’s Cathedral took 15 years to renovate and cost around $ 63 million. The architect in charge was Martin Stancliffe, who oversaw the renovation of the western section of the cathedral which was coated in dirt and grime. The building now has an education centre and the entire cathedral can be accessed by those with disabilities.
- Department of Foreign Affairs, Washington D.C.
The Department of Foreign Affairs was renovated in 1956 to make room for the expansion of services and employees. It was renovated to add 1,040,000 square feet – four times the size of the initial building. Four square blocks annexed and eight floors were built at a price of around $ 52,720,000. When the renovation of this building was completed in 1961, it was one of the biggest projects at that time.
- Grand Central Station, New York City
Grand Central Station in New York City is a leading building that underwent renovations from 1994 to 1998 and cost nearly $ 100 million. Architects restored ceilings in the main room, stairs on the east balcony, pedestrian paths, retail space, and shop windows.
- Empire State Building, City of New York
In 2009, the Empire State Building underwent a massive retrofit of sustainability at $ 550 million. The W & H Properties renovation contractor renovated the art deco lobby and the entire observatory and also installed advanced technology throughout the building. Features that saved energy were added, which included refurbishing the some 6,000 windows, installation of insulation behind all radiators, factory chillers equipped and control of the new building management system.
