Join Central New Jersey us on April 23, from 6-8 PM at Seasons 52 in Bridgewater for a presentation on the restoration of Notre-Dame Cathedral. Dr. Lindsay Cook and Jackson DuBois will explore the impact of the 2019 fire, addressing fire protection, structural integrity, and the role of modern technology in preserving historic buildings. They will also examine how traditional craftsmanship and innovative solutions are being used to rebuild Notre-Dame with both historical accuracy and modern safety standards.

Dinner + cash bar

Course Description (1 LU|HSW)

In this joint lecture, Dr. Lindsay Cook (Department of Art History, Penn State University) and Jackson DuBois (Executive Director, Timber Framers Guild) will frame the Notre-Dame restoration as a work of contemporary architecture.

The fire that ravaged Notre-Dame in April 2019 exposed key challenges related to fire protection, materials, and structural integrity in historic buildings. As flames consumed the cathedral’s roof, melting lead tiles and destroying the 19th-century spire’s timber framework, the fire also highlighted the resilience of its stone structure. This resilience showcased the ingenuity of the original Gothic design and the craftsmanship of its builders.

In the wake of the fire, the Macron administration expressed openness to adding a “contemporary architectural gesture” to the spire, sparking an international design response. Architects and students worldwide reimagined the spire and roof system, pushing for innovative solutions.

However, the restoration has focused on rebuilding Notre-Dame identically (à l’identique), a feat made possible by the combined efforts of architects, engineers, conservators, materials scientists, and tradespeople. Modern technologies have been integrated with traditional materials, ensuring that the work adheres to both historical accuracy and modern standards for safety and structural integrity.

By examining the process, participants will gain insights into contemporary architectural practice, including strategies for enhancing fire resilience, maintaining material sustainability, and ensuring the structural integrity of complex, historic buildings.