The Board of Visitors approved plans yesterday for the first phase of renovation and repair work on the Rotunda.
Work on the project, which will cost $22.9 million, is expected to begin as early as next summer. Its main goal is to ensure the "weather tightness" of the building, with renovators also aiming to restore the cosmetic appearance closer to Thomas Jefferson's original design, University architect David Neuman said. As the first major work performed on the Rotunda since the mid-1970s, the project presents a unique challenge for historical preservation.
"The main issue is to protect this historic treasure," Neuman said.
Both the roof and the Corinthian column capitals have deteriorated significantly and will be the focus of the renovations.
The black netting at the top of the columns on the Rotunda was installed last semester to protect against falling pieces of decorative carving, and outside conservation and engineering consultants have said it is likely that all of the capitals should be replaced and that structural repairs should be made to each portico, Neuman said. For now, however, "there are no imminent structural concerns," he said.
The Board also approved a full roof replacement to follow up on work complete during the 1970s.
"A painted copper roof, that was not leaking, was removed from the Rotunda in the 1970s and was replaced with a sheet metal roof," Neuman said. The metal roof has deteriorated and is leaking internally.
In addition, the cupola will be replaced because it is neither standard white nor the color Jefferson envisioned. It is likely to be replaced with a plaster exterior, Neuman said.
These efforts will allow the University to build upon its success with opening the South Lawn, which was completed both on time and within its budgetary constraints. President Teresa A. Sullivan said it is now time to turn to the north end of the Lawn, noting that "Jefferson designed the Rotunda as the architectural and academic heart of his University"
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