Mario Machnicki

Mario Machnicki is a leading authority in historic masonry restoration, with decades of hands-on experience preserving the integrity of iconic buildings and architectural materials. As founder of Marion Restoration, a renowned Chicago-based firm, he has spearheaded the conservation of masonry, stone, and terra cotta on historic landmarks nationwide.

Mario is also the founder of U.S. Heritage Group, where he developed the Limetech system—an acclaimed range of lime-based materials tailored for the sensitive repair of historic masonry. Additionally, he pioneered Polana in 1997, launching the first Polish mail-order store in the U.S., which evolved into a pioneering Polish e-commerce platform.

His expertise spans condition assessment, development of compatible repair solutions, and the application of preservation-based practices aligned with international conservation standards. He has led restoration efforts on prominent monuments and institutional structures across the U.S.

Beyond his contracting work, Mario is a dedicated educator. He conducts workshops, on-site training, and technical consulting, collaborating with architects, conservators, and contractors to advance the use of traditional materials and best practices in historic preservation.

He is an active member of multiple international professional organizations and remains committed to advancing the field of historic masonry conservation. He has been a long-standing member of PASO, contributing his expertise and leadership over the years.