Project profile: The Renwick Gallery of the Smithsonian American Art Museum

The Renwick Gallery of the Smithsonian American Art Museum was the first purpose-built art museum in the country, built in 1859 to the design of architect James Renwick, Jr. and was last renovated between 1967 and 1972. The 21st century renovation replaced and improved major building infrastructure, enhanced historic features, and improved flexibility for exhibits. The project included restoration of two long-concealed vaulted ceilings; re-creation of the original 19th-century window configuration; replacement of all building systems; and improvements for accessibility.

The Renwick Gallery of the Smithsonian American Art Museum; Washington, DC; DLR Group | Westlake Reed Leskosky

Building program type(s): Public Assembly – Entertainment/Culture

(2018 AIA COTE Top Ten award recipient)