Cost:
$2,700,000

Size:
N/A

Completion:
1989 - 1991

The adaptive reuse of the hisotric Castle Building involved the conversion of existing museum/storage areas into a first-class, interactive Visitor Information Center. The interior was restored with sensitivity to the history and elegance of this spectacular landmark, including marbleizing the interior columns, installation of 13 kiosks containing state-of-the-art interactive video systems, travel directories, two video orientation theatres, and administrative offices. Fire alarm and suppression systems were upgraded and renovations were made to fully comply with ADA Requirements. The entire project was phased to allow for continued occupation during construction.

Four hundred and two (402) single window units in the Castle Building were surveyed and designated for restoration, which involved a two-year development/design of thermally efficient windows that not only met the functional needs of the Smithsonian, but also adhered to strict historic design parameters. Restorations were also made to the masonry exterior of the Castle Building. This involved repointing or the Seneca sandstone portion of the building, gutter and down spout replacement and roof repairs.

Other Smithsonian Institution facilities where RCG has completed projects include: the National Museum of Natural History, American Art and Portrait Gallery, Art and Industries Building, Renwick Gallery, and the National Air and Space Museum, all in Washington, DC, as well as the Cooper Hewitt Museum in New York City and the Smithsonian Environmental Research Center in Edgewater, Maryland.

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