Virginia Capitol Historic Restoration and Expansion

The Virginia Capitol Restoration and Renovation was a legacy project and included the complete renovation and restoration of the Capitol building, construction of a new underground Capitol Extension with support tunnels, utilities, and site work. Thomas Jefferson was the architect of the original building with foundations being laid in 1785. It is the nation’s oldest working Capitol, having been continuously in use since 1788.

The project included the complete removal of existing utilities which were in a state of disrepair, a secure visitors entrance in the new underground space, an exhibit/educational area, additional administration space, a new utility loop to support the renovation and incorporation of new mechanical, electrical, life safety and technology systems into the building so that it functions effectively for the next 100 years. The team was also able to modify the first floor slab to a raised access floor system which resulted in additional space for floor utilities as well as increased access for maintenance staff, faster installation time and lower cost. To ensure that the historic building was completely preserved during excavation and demolition work, an archeologist was hired to observe all activities during these stages of construction.