DAR Constitution Hall Renovation Marches Forward

As with most major projects in historic facilities, the journey has not been without its challenges. Although inspections for lead paint and asbestos had been conducted prior to the start of work and we knew those issues existed, the prevalence of both turned out to be far greater than originally imagined. Not only did this add cost to the project, but it also delayed renovation activity due to required notices, inspections and specialized abatement work that had to be performed.

Another major surprise came when the carpeting and tiles on the orchestra floor were removed. After nearly a century of use, the top strata of concrete into which the seats had been bolted was found to be cracked, crumbling and in a condition that required complete removal in order that an entire new layer of concrete be poured. This had a significant impact on both the budget and the schedule but was an unexpected condition that simply had to be addressed in order to ensure structural safety.

• The carpet patterns and colors for the auditorium were selected while I was on site last week during the Executive Week and National Board of Management meeting. This culminated several weeks of work with the architects to create a palette/design that ties together the colors of the murals and dome on the stage with those of the previously renovated lobby, all while balancing historic preservation concerns.
• Although an area never actually seen by Daughters, critical repair to the infrastructure above the ceiling has been taking place and will continue for the next couple of months. Structural issues, safety concerns, electrical wiring, ventilation problems and a host of other items are being addressed for the long-term betterment of the Hall and its visitors.
• The renovation/refurbishment of the downstairs dressing rooms is nearly halfway complete. Although these areas did not exist as “dressing rooms” at the time of the original construction, attention has been given to capturing historic elements throughout Constitution Hall in their redesign, while at the same time introducing elements required for modern-day use. We thank the Florida Daughters for their support of this important portion of the project.

• For the first time since the Hall’s opening in 1930, we are addressing the curved ceiling above the tiers, which was originally a much lighter taupe color but was painted dark gray at some point. In keeping with the intent of replicating the original design as much as possible, a lighter fabric color has been selected and will be installed once the existing curved plaster ceiling is removed due to deterioration and cracking; it will be replaced (for the first time) with a new, more versatile composition version with better acoustical properties.
• Finally, the most exciting part of the project lies directly overhead, where a historic laylight that has been covered for more than seven decades will be brought back to the spirit of its original design using modern technology to replicate natural lighting. You’ll be hearing much more about this as we approach this year’s Giving Tuesday with a hope that you may be interested and/or able to be a part of this exciting undertaking.