In honor of our nation’s 250th birthday, we’re sharing stories of places that showcase the rich tapestry of American history. Guided by our stewardship ethos, our work connects people to place and drives positive change for generations to come—respecting the past while creating a legacy for the future.
Modernism—the architectural style that proliferated in the United States after World War II—reflects a period of American innovation and reinvention. With clean lines, open plans, and cutting-edge materials, Modernist design shaped the homes, workplaces, and public buildings of a growing nation.
Today, even the youngest structures from the Modern era are approaching 50 years old. Many of these buildings are in need of renewal to continue serving their communities. Here are five Modern buildings we’ve revitalized for future generations to enjoy.
McGregor Reflecting Pool and Sculpture Garden
WAYNE STATE UNIVERSITY | DETROIT, MICHIGAN
Designed by Minoru Yamasaki, the McGregor Memorial Conference Center opened in 1958. We restored its pool and sculpture garden while improving performance, including accessibility and functionality. It’s once again a tranquil oasis on the bustling Wayne State University campus.
Netherlands Carillon
GEORGE WASHINGTON MEMORIAL PARKWAY | ARLINGTON, VIRGINIA
Our rehabilitation of this modernist bell tower renewed a symbol of international gratitude. Designed by Dutch architect Joost W. C. Boks and completed in 1960, the carillon was gifted by the Netherlands to the United States in recognition of aid during and after World War II. Its observation deck offers sweeping views of the Washington skyline, and its summer bell concert series is a local favorite.
The Center for Architecture and Design
BALTIMORE, MARYLAND
Modernist buildings like the one housing The Center (One Charles Center, designed by Mies van der Rohe and completed in1962) have been criticized as cold and uninviting. Our design embraces Mies’ legacy while also being dynamic, open and flexible—for example, we reimagined the severe green marble that clads building’s lobby as collaborative work surfaces that bring people together.
Arvonne Fraser Library
HENNEPIN COUNTY LIBRARY | MINNEAPOLIS, MINNESOTA
We celebrated this beloved public library’s Modern design while making strategic modifications to better serve the community’s needs. Designed by renowned architect Ralph Rapson, the building opened in 1964. Our renovation both preserves the building’s unique geometry and reclaims its once off-limits basement as public space.
Benjamin Franklin Museum
INDEPENDENCE NATIONAL HISTORICAL PARK | PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA
Like the National Air and Space Museum, the Benjamin Franklin Museum—designed by Robert Venturi and Denise Scott Brown—opened in 1976. In anticipation of large numbers of Bicentennial visitors, the exhibits were installed in a linear fashion intended to move people through museum quickly. For the museum’s first major renovation, we collaborated with a multi-disciplined team to define and deliver a new self-paced and interactive experience.
Together, these projects illustrate how thoughtful stewardship can sustain the spirit of Modernism while adapting spaces to meet the evolving needs of today’s communities. By honoring original design intent and pairing it with innovative solutions, we ensure these landmarks remain relevant, accessible, and inspiring.
