After heavy rain and thunderstorm events swept through Ybor City, the historic Centro Español building (1912) sustained visible damage to its southwest finial from a lightning strike. Drone images and preliminary observations revealed fractured and displaced brick, cracked cementitious finishes, and local roof system damage at the tower’s crown.
The priority: stabilize and restore a defining architectural feature without compromising the integrity of this landmark structure. The damaged pedestal should be restored to closely replicate the other existing pedestals.
We began with a hands-on condition survey, studying the damaged finial up close and mapping out a safe path for dismantling and reconstruction. Once debris was cleared, we returned to measure, analyze, and calculate.
From estimating the weight and center of gravity of the sphere and its support pier to preparing signed and sealed restoration drawings, every step combined precision engineering with respect for historic craftsmanship. Our priority was structural integrity but also being mindful to preserve the building’s aesthetic.
The restored pedestal replicates the original in form and finish, returning Centro Español’s rooftop silhouette to the condition it has maintained since 1912 and providing its owners with confidence that the structure beneath it is sound.
The project delivered a clear, engineered roadmap for stabilization and restoration, transforming storm damage into a structured plan that protects the building’s architectural character while ensuring structural reliability for years to come.
More than a repair, this was a preservation effort, one that required the same level of care for aesthetics as for engineering. The restored finial now stands as it always has, an uninterrupted part of Ybor City’s skyline.
LOCATION
Ybor City, Tampa, FL
YEAR BUILT
1912
BUILDING TYPE
Historic Landmark
SCOPE
Southwest Finial Restoration
Our Engineers deliver clear, actionable restoration plans, from condition survey to signed drawings.
