Preserve an Architectural Treasure

TUDOR PLACE | Last day open of 2024: Sunday, December 29. Click for info

TUDOR PLACE | Last day open of 2024: Sunday, December 29.

A neoclassical monument worth preserving

Dr. William Thornton, architect of the first U.S. Capitol and family friend, designed the grand neoclassical house, which was completed in 1816 and stands at the center of the property. It is the repository for an original and intact collection covering over 18,000 objects and the rarity of its intangible contents: the stories held within it.

The historic house currently operates on a 1914 steam-heat system, a 1914 electrical system, and an early 2000s fire-detection system. No fire-suppression system exists within the house itself and humidity control is virtually nonexistent. Moreover, administrative activities occupy rooms that could be used as interpreted spaces, to further the visitor experience in telling stories of those who lived and worked at Tudor Place.

In concert with Tudor Place’s dedication to environmental sustainability, systems will be designed to mitigate risk while increasing site efficiency. To preserve this architectural treasure, the Master Preservation Plan seeks to:

Replace the 1914 mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems in the house and historic garage with efficient and environmentally sustainable 21st century systems.
Install advanced fire-detection and -suppression systems as well as a state-of-the-art security system.
Conserve and restore interior finishes – wall coverings, window treatments, and architectural elements.
Conserve collections and archival objects in the house in climate-controlled conditions for study and display.
Make historic spaces available for education and display by removing administrative functions from the library, radio control room, cellar, and a servant bedroom, and interpreting them as they were used by the Peter family.

Resources

Click below for a quick look at what’s entailed to preserve an architectural treasure.

HISTORIC HOUSE

Temple Portico (interior view)

Coordinated design will allow the electrical, HVAC and fire suppression systems to be installed with minimal disruption to the original building fabric

Damaged and deterioration finishes in the Historic House will be restored

Moving archival collections to a dedicated storage facility at the Garage will enhance their preservation.

Aged electrical and HVAC systems in the Historic House will be updated and improved

A high pressure water mist fire suppression system will protect the Historic House from fire, while minimizing water damage when discharged

SLAVERY AT TUDOR PLACE

As an historic site that bears the scars of slavery, Tudor Place seeks to look this injustice in the eye. Click here to learn more.

Advance registration encouraged; suggested donation. Click for info.

1644 31st Street, NW | Washington, DC 20007
202-965-0400 | info@tudorplace.org

Advance registration encouraged; suggested donation. Click for info.

1644 31st Street, NW | Washington, DC 20007
202-965-0400 | info@tudorplace.org