LOCAL NEWS | Philadelphia Contributionship Restoration Earns 2026 North American Copper in Architecture Award

The Philadelphia Contributionship project received a 2026 North American Copper in Architecture Award in the Restoration category. WJE served as the architect for the project, which was completed in April 2023.

Founded in 1752 by Benjamin Franklin, the Philadelphia Contributionship is the nation's oldest property insurance company, with a legacy closely tied to advancing fire-resistant construction and preserving Philadelphia's architectural heritage.

Led by Principal Jeff Levine, the restoration focused on upgrading the building's roofing and sheet-metal systems. Work included removing and replacing copper downspouts, installing new copper flashings on the slate mansard roofs, and replacing deteriorated fascia and crown moldings at the west mansard with new copper components. The repairs restored the building's architectural definition while improving long-term durability, balancing historical integrity with modern performance standards by extending the life of the building envelope while preserving its original character.

The Copper Development Association selected eight recently completed projects for its 2026 awards. Now in its nineteenth year, the annual competition recognizes newly constructed and restored buildings across the United States and Canada. An experienced panel of judges selects winning projects that demonstrate exceptional copper design and craftsmanship in roofing, facades, wall systems, and custom-fabricated elements.