For decades the Colonnade, Terrace Garden, and Pergola had been subjected to harsh weather, increasingly heavy use, and deferred maintenance.  The need for an extensive rehabilitation was evident to address all these concerns, and to bring these three areas into the modern age while respecting the National Historic Landmark status of the property, and the aspirations and goals of the museum.

The Colonnade rehabilitation fixed severe structural issues and building material deterioration, restored lost and damaged historic building elements, introduced year-round climate-control for the first time, improved and expanded both interior and exterior handicap accessibility to the museum, mansion, and garden; and installed a permanent, frame-less glass enclosure to create a modern interpretation of the original intent for “openness.”

The Terrace Garden rehabilitation repaired and reconstructed severely deteriorated structural elements while adding new design details to increase the performance of the overall structure.  The subtle modification of the existing walks and steps of the garden created a fully accessible experience between the Colonnade, Terrace Garden, and Pergola for the community, patrons, museum members, and staff.