Basilica of Saint Lawrence Finished Renovation

The historic Asheville landmark completed a multi-year restoration project to repair its dome and architectural features.

Updated on Oct. 12, 2026 in Home Renovation

Basilica of Saint Lawrence Finished Renovation

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The Basilica of Saint Lawrence in Asheville has officially completed a comprehensive $7.7 million restoration project. A reopening ceremony was held on October 10, 2026, to mark the conclusion of work on the site.

Why it matters

The restoration ensures the long-term preservation of a unique architectural site that remains the only building in the United States designed and constructed by architect Rafael Guastavino. Securing the structure involved critical repairs to one of the largest freestanding elliptical domes in the country.

The restoration project carried a total price tag of $7.7 million. This effort was funded entirely through a combination of congregation donations, community contributions, and various grants.

The players

Basilica of Saint Lawrence

This Asheville landmark is known for containing one of the largest freestanding elliptical domes in the United States.

Rafael Guastavino

He was an architect whose work at the Basilica stands as the only building in the United States he designed and built himself.

The details

Work focused on essential structural preservation, including the replacement of the copper dome and the repair of the oculus. Specialized crews also restored the building's cornice and parapet walls to maintain the historical integrity of the structure.

The restoration project commenced in 2025.
Phase one renovations were scheduled to wrap up in September 2026.
The Basilica held a reopening ceremony on October 10, 2026.

Culture Shift

The restoration marks a continuation of the architectural legacy of Rafael Guastavino. The project preserves the physical structural integrity of the only building in the United States entirely designed and built by the architect.

Residents and visitors can now return to the site following the conclusion of the construction period. The reopening restores access to a primary local landmark that had been under renovation for several years.

The takeaway

Historic preservation projects require significant community financial support and years of dedicated construction effort. Maintaining iconic local structures allows cities to protect their unique architectural history for future generations.