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.
State capitol buildings are the central hubs of state government. They’re where laws are debated, written, and passed, and where governors carry out executive responsibilities that affect millions of residents. Beyond their governmental function, state capitols are also symbolic landmarks that represent our democratic ideals and state identities. We’ve renewed three historic state capitol buildings to continue serving the functions of modern government.
Virginia State Capitol
RICHMOND, VIRGINIA
Originally designed by Thomas Jefferson and dating to 1790, the Virginia Capitol is the second-oldest active state capitol building and a National Historic Landmark. We served as the local architect for a major renovation and expansion in the 2000s that created the Extension, an underground visitor center that increased the Capitol’s capacity for public tours in time for the celebrations surrounding the 400th anniversary of Jamestown Settlement. More recently, we designed a tunnel connecting the Capitol to the General Assembly Building to improve security and accessibility for legislators, staff, and visitors.
Colorado State Capitol
DENVER, COLORADO
We designed a comprehensive restoration of the Colorado Capitol’s cast iron dome. The Capitol was designed by Elijah E. Myers, who also designed Richmond’s Old City Hall—and, like Old City Hall, it was originally completed in 1894. By the 2010s, a century of wear and tear had left its mark; at one point a piece of decorative ironwork fell onto the dome’s lower-level observation deck, causing it to be closed to the public. After four years of planning and construction, the dome was restored to its original grandeur, reopened to visitors, and ready for its next century of service.
Michigan State Capitol
LANSING, MICHIGAN
We’ve worked with the Michigan State Capitol Commission for over 30 years to restore, modernize, and expand the Michigan Capitol. Also designed by Elijah E. Meyers, the 1879 building features one of the country’s finest examples of Victorian decorative arts. We served as the implementing architect on the Capitol’s award-winning restoration in the 1990s. Since then, we have continued to address the building’s ongoing preservation and modernization needs. Our latest efforts are a digital twin for the historic building and a major underground expansion, Heritage Hall, that transforms the visitor experience.
Balancing preservation with progress, we honor the architectural legacy and civic symbolism of our state capitols while equipping them to meet contemporary needs. By renewing these landmark buildings, we help them remain accessible, functional, and inspiring places where democracy can continue to flourish for generations to come.
Look out for more Celebrating American Stories posts between now and Independence Day!
