Summerhouse

JMA Preservation was the Architectural Conservator for a detailed assessment of the historic landscape features of the Summerhouse c. 1880 on the grounds of the U.S. Capitol. The Summerhouse is constructed in the form of an open hexagon with a central fountain and a sunken grotto. The red tapestry and pressed brick used for the walls is laid in geometric patterns using custom shapes forming volutes and other shapes. Other materials on the structure include bluestone trim, wrought iron gates and grilles, and terra cotta roof tiles. JMA Preservation was responsible for construction administration for the Architect of the Capitol during the Summerhouse stabilization phase for the masonry, tile roof, wrought iron, and fountain. We also performed a mortar analysis and oversaw a non-destructive evaluation of the roof supports.