Story

The People’s House project represents a commitment to history through construction innovation in a modern setting. This project involves the tenant improvement of a 33,000 square-foot, three-floor immersive museum located one block from the White House. Developed by the White House Historical Association, the museum offers visitors an educational experience that brings the Executive Mansion and its history to life in unprecedented details. The goal of the project was to create interactive exhibition spaces allowing visitors to experience White House areas typically inaccessible to the public. Key feature spaces include a full-scale, 1:1 replica of the Oval Office complete with a 3D-printed fireplace and presidential seal, a recreation of the State Dining Room, the Cabinet Room, and the Family Theatre. Advanced projection technology was integrated throughout to provide interactive and immersive experiences, making history engaging for guests of all ages. Construction on the museum floors required significant structural modifications, including slab cuts to accommodate the installation of two, new interconnecting staircases. These staircases connect both levels of the museum, enhancing the visitor flow and accessibility between the exhibits. The project also included the installation of a new elevator and administrative offices on the third floor, as well as a retail area to complement the museum experience. One significant technical hurdle was executing the structural modifications while ensuring the integrity and safety of the building. This task was further complicated by the coordination of utilities and mechanical systems required to align seamlessly with the high-end exhibit spaces. The team’s upfront planning and close coordination with subcontractors, design team, and the client ensured that these challenges were addressed without compromising quality or the project’s timeline. The installation of the full-scale Oval Office replica stands out as a particularly intricate task. Every detail – from the custom millwork to the fireplace and presidential seal – was tailored to meet the highest standards of accuracy and craftsmanship. Leveraging cutting-edge 3D printing and digital modeling technologies, the team delivered an impeccable product that impressed both the client and the project stakeholders. The project team’s ability to execute such a visionary space relied on exceptional collaboration and problem-solving at every stage. The result is a museum that exceeds the client’s vision of creating a cutting-edge educational experience. The People’s House offers a dynamic and immersive way to connect with the history, architecture, and stories of the White House, setting a new benchmark for museum design and construction. Logistics posed another challenge, as the site’s downtown Washington, D.C. location required careful planning for material deliveries, staging, and coordination with adjacent properties. Despite these constraints, the project was completed on schedule. This project exemplifies how detailed planning and teamwork can transform a concept into an operational reality. The People’s House is a proud achievement, demonstrating expertise, craftsmanship, and a commitment to delivering impactful spaces.