Old Executive Office Building
Washington, DC

Constructed from 1871 to 1888, this building was originally the State, War and Navy Building and is one of the best examples in the United States of the Second Empire style. QUINN EVANS | ARCHITECTS has provided architectural design services for several comprehensive projects at this National Historic Landmark, which today houses the Office of the Vice President, the National Security Council, the Office of Management and Budget, and the Secret Service.

Restoration of the building’s detailed granite upper facade and its ornate mansard roofing system entailed substantive materials research and sophisticated design and project management solutions. To resolve the structural problems of the 100,000-square-foot roof complex, 63,000 square feet of new arched concrete roof decking was installed and overlaid with slate and copper sheet metal roofing. The restoration involved refurbishment or replacement of 60 skylights, installation of over a mile of gutters, restoration of 200 cast iron and granite dormers, repair of 28 chimneys, and the casting of over 7,500 ornamental iron elements. Construction planning was implemented to accomplish the work in phases over four years, with uninterrupted occupancy and maintenance of stringent White House security requirements throughout the construction period. The $24.5 million roof replacement was completed within budget and 243 days ahead of schedule.