Fallingwater is one of the most recognized examples of modern architecture in the world. Frank Lloyd Wright designed this vacation home for Edgar Kaufmann in 1935, specifically for its location over the Bear Run stream and waterfall. It has been open for public tours since 1963 when it was gifted by Edgar Kaufman Jr. to the Western Pennsylvania Conservancy. The site was listed on the National Register of Historic Places since 1974. A major preservation campaign starting with investigative field research in 1995 culminated in 2003 with the successful structural stabilization of the cantilevered terraces and installation of custom waterproofing systems.

Worcester Eisenbrandt’s role in the restoration of Fallingwater involved the replication of an exterior staircase and the rebuilding of stone walls associated with the building’s cantilever terraces. Before major restoration work could commence however, WEI conservators needed to divert part of the flow of Bear Run below the house to create a work space.  The diversion needed to make the area safe for the crew and satisfy local environmental protections.  Once that was accomplished and approved, WEI began the demolition of the existing concrete steps, walls, and foundation below the master cantilever terrace. Once the damaged sections were removed, WEI installed newly fabricated stainless steel stair supports and reconstructed concrete steps to allow easier and safer access to the cantilever and stream. As the rubble stone walls of Fallingwater were disassembled, WEI catalogued the individual stones to be able to faithfully reassemble the wall in the original layout after a new concrete foundation was poured.  Worcester Eisenbrandt’s careful and diligent work helped restore one of the nation’s crowning achievements in modernist architecture.