Venture Richmond
Representing the merger of Richmond Renaissance, City Celebrations, River District Alliance and Richmond Riverfront Corporation.
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THE VIRGINIA CAPITOL RESTORATION AND EXPANSION PROJECT
The $104.5 million renovation, restoration and extension of Thomas
Jefferson's Temple to American Democracy, the Virginia Capitol, was
unveiled to the public today. Closed for over two years for extensive
repairs and expansion, the first major restoration and change to this
iconic American treasure in over 100 years was marked by a
ribbon-cutting ceremony on the South Portico lawn.
Officials formally opened the Capitol Extension, a 27,000-sq.-ft.
underground addition that stretches from the original foundation
beneath the steps of the Capitol's South Portico to the Square's
southern border on Bank Street. The Jerusalem limestone and granite
Capitol Extension, designed by Dr. George C. Skarmeas, AIA, AICP of
Hillier Architecture, Philadelphia, PA, houses multi-purpose meeting
rooms; exhibition space; media areas; and amenities including
Meriwether's Café, restrooms and a reception area.
Visitors can transition from the Extension into the historic Capitol
and to the Rotunda on the second floor, which displays the Jean-Antoine
Houdon Carrera marble statue of George Washington, illuminated by the
skylights. The Old Hall of the House of Delegates; the Old Senate
Chamber; the Senate and House Chambers; and the Jefferson Room are also
on this level.
The original, Classical Roman-style "temple" was designed by Jefferson
while Minister to France in 1785, at a site he selected atop Richmond's
Shockoe Hill (now Capitol Square).
Virginia Capitol tours will resume Friday, May 4, 2007 - seven days a week, except certain holidays. For more information call
804-698-1788.
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05.01.2007
