Photo credit: GSA
The Dwight D. Eisenhower Executive Office Building is one of the most significant landmarks in the United States. When it was completed in 1888 as the State, War, and Navy Building, it was the largest office in the nation’s capital. Today the Eisenhower Executive Office Building houses administrators of the Executive Office of the President, and provides ceremonial spaces for the nation’s two highest-ranking elected officials. Its design by Alfred B. Mullett is considered a leading example of Second Empire–style architecture in America.
Over eight years, this iconic 692,000-square-foot structure was completely modernized without compromising historic character or disturbing full operations. The undertaking is GSA’s first major security upgrade to an important, fully functioning building using design-build delivery, and its first design-build modernization of an occupied National Historic Landmark.
Beyond security enhancements, this project brought telecommunications, HVAC, electrical power, and fire protection in line with current guidelines and standards; electrical distribution and back-up systems and lighting also were replaced. Accommodating the updated and new systems required construction of a 4-story, 21,000-square-foot central utility plant within an existing courtyard, and natural ventilation shafts were outfitted with utility risers from which piping, ducts, and conduits were extended to rooms via raised access flooring.
Exterior restoration encompassed granite cleaning and repair of roof elements that included cast-iron chimneys, skylights, and decoration. Inside, infrastructure upgrades were made to 28 historic rooms. Unexpected discovery of the Secretary of War’s original ceiling mural exemplifies the vigilance with which this work was executed. Upon detection of the portrayal of Mars and Nike, art conservators removed the multiple layers of paint covering the mural and restored it, and a final barrier coat was applied.
In addition to renewing original spaces, the project updated 11 rooms with sensitivity to Mullett’s design. Paint colors were drawn from the Victorian era; walls, floors, lighting, and ceilings include materials inherent to the building; energy-efficient and secure windows replicate the previous windows in profile; and strategically placed office partitions complement historic finishes. Modernization also prepared the Eisenhower Executive Office Building for the future. In particular, thanks to the raised access floors, office space can be adapted to fast-paced changes in workspace technology and culture.
The work required orchestrating 12 design disciplines and 35 trades overall. Team contributions were synchronized using BIM and computational fluid dynamics models—which identified potential clashes between infrastructure systems, and balanced energy performance with occupant comfort—and by more traditional construction mockups. Exploratory demolition and in-situ analysis safeguarded the historical accuracy of parquet flooring, elaborate cornices, plasterwork, and other preserved features, as well as the integrity of new design decisions. Furthermore, all construction workers were required to attend a preservation orientation. This program underscored the importance of the building, surveyed its architectural features, and ensured construction protocol.
United States Courthouse
Austin, TX
GSA Office
Greater Southwest Region
Mack Scogin Merrill Elam Architects, Center for Maximum Potential Building Systems, Page Southerland Page, Architectural Engineers Collaborative, White Construction Co., APSI CM, ADT, Biggs Plumbing Co., CMC Alamo Steel, Curtainwall Design Consultants, Ebenisterie Beaubois, Haeglin Construction, Hargreaves Associates, Harmon, Hinman Consulting Engineers, Intrepid Stone Contractors, J.M. Boyer, Johnson Roofing, Kroll Security Services Group, LAM Partners, Maldonado Nursery & Landscaping, National Terrazo Tile & Marble, Rolf Jensen Associates, Rudd & Adams Masonry, Schmidt Electric Co., Shen Milson & Wilke