Acquired by the Museum in 2004, this 1928 baroque-style former bank and adjacent c1890s commercial building had long been architectural cornerstones of Fredericksburg's historic downtown.
This project integrated both buildings into a seamless museum by relocating the floors of the commercial building to align with those of the bank. The original double-height banking hall was converted into a large two-level exhibit space which showcases the restored ceiling cornices and chandelier, as well as wood paneling below the mezzanines. The bank vault was also restored to its original stone cladding and new gallery space was created in an underutilized attic.
The bank building’s exterior was restored and the entrance reconfigured to address accessibility requirements while being sensitive the historic facade. The commercial building facade was also upgraded to accommodate a new entrance for the museum shop.
Details
- Permanent & changing exhibit galleries
- New children's learning center
- Museum shop, offices and administrative spaces
- Extensive coordination with the Virginia Department of Historic Resources