Hillsdale County Courthouse
Hillsdale, MIAfter more than 100 years of service to the Hillsdale, Michigan community, the Hillsdale County Courthouse needed a complete replacement of the original clay tile roof. However, our team quickly discovered that roof deterioration was just the beginning.
Work included
- Complete replacement of the barrel-style clay tile roof
- Restoration of wood and steel framing beneath the original roof
- Copper gutter system replacement
- Fabrication of custom copper and architectural sheet metal for copper domes and clocktower
- Exterior masonry repair
THE CHALLENGE
Restoration of the Hillsdale County Courthouse ultimately involved a much larger scope of work than originally anticipated. Not only was the clay tile roof significantly compromised after more than a century of service, but several other structural components were also in a severe state of disrepair. This required a robust restoration plan with multiple teams working concurrently to address specific issues, some of which called for custom copper and architectural sheet metal fabrication.
The courthouse also remained open throughout the project, which demanded extensive safety and logistical planning to ensure that restoration activities did not disrupt day-to-day operations inside the building.
THE RENAISSANCE SOLUTION
We combined modern technology with superior craftsmanship to replace the barrel-style clay tile roof, along with the underlayment and framing needed to support a historically accurate roof for the next 100 years. Using our in-house copper studio and architectural sheet metal fabrication capabilities, we created custom copper work for the courthouse’s gutter system, domes, and clocktower, restoring the exterior to its original glory.
THE RESULTS
While the Hillsdale County Courthouse restoration certainly had unique aspects, our approach remained consistent with the high standards we hold for any project. The new roof system, copper dome, and clocktower preserve the structure’s historical integrity while providing renewed strength and protection. This high-profile project demonstrates our commitment to thorough, detail-oriented, and comprehensive restoration of one of the region’s most beloved landmarks.
Winner of the 2025 North American Copper in Architecture Award
Profiled in Commercial Construction & Renovation Magazine
