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�鶹��ý was presented with the Historic Ithaca Inc. 2020 Preservation Award for the reconstruction and preservation of the Delta Kappa Epsilon house on the campus of Cornell University. Historic Ithaca Inc. presented the award in front of the historic fraternity house in Ithaca, New York.

Every year Historic Ithaca, Inc. presents awards for restoration and preservation projects within Tompkins County. Nominations are reviewed by a panel of preservation professionals and awards are made based on criteria such as the  long-term preservation of the building, adherence to basic preservation principles, and the project’s impact on the surrounding community.

“�鶹��ý has been constructing communities for about as long as the Delta Kappa Epsilon House has been around,” said Anne �鶹��ý-Hartsing, President. “We applaud Historic Ithaca for being champions in preserving buildings and maintaining their historical significance in the community. It’s an honor for �鶹��ý to be part of this project and help to preserve the County’s history and heritage.”

The Delta Kappa Epsilon (DKE) house, was built in 1893 and was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1991. It was designed by William Henry Miller to serve as a fraternity house, with plans to originally house sixteen students. Two sides of the exterior were clad with marble from the St. Lawrence Marble Company of Gouverneur, New York.

Together with Lacey Thaler Reilly Wilson Architecture & Preservation, LLP, �鶹��ý reconstructed the deteriorated granite stairway, entrance, and front porch of the DKE house. The reconstruction included removing and labeling all existing granite stones and stair treads and storing off site while all back up walls and existing drainage were demolished and reconstructed. After pouring new backup walls, all stones and treads were reset and new wood and bronze handrails were fabricated and installed.

“Leading the construction team and witnessing the revival of this historic structure was a very rewarding experience,” said Jake Perno, �鶹��ý Project Manager. “Preserving historic buildings and structures like the Delta Kappa Epsilon house is what gives Ithaca its character and sense of community. Our skilled tradespeople are trusted experts in performing preservation work. We are proud to be recognized for this initiative.”