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The White House Hotel Restoration |
The 'New' Southwest Wing
Work on this section was nearly on schedule after a few rainy days throughout November, 2000. Recounting briefly, a new structure had to replace the former rotted, collapsed wing on the southwest corner of the hotel. The debris was cleared out and the replacement building was nearly complete by the Summer of 2001. Some RAC engineers described it as the toughest work out of the whole project. What was tougher were the numerous engineering and architechtural enhancements which continually, though necessarily, prolong this restoration. Revised plans call for completion and the grand opening in 2002 (see sign at top).
Firstly, as much of the original building as possible had to be preserved. The columns and other fixtures were removed for restoration. The wooden outer wall and framework was salvaged or reconstructed where possible. Everything inside, from the foundation on up, was thoroughly removed. Then a new concrete foundation was poured and simoultaneously a steel rod-and-concrete infrastructure was built.
This is the same view two months prior to photo above.
Behind the scenes.A glimpse from the 'back yard' offers a better view of what's going on with the new wing's construction. Once again the central wing (left) and the older west wing (right) will be connected. The new wing will keep its original two-story configuration, but note the new lounge and patio that will add a discreet 'third story' to the building. Also note the bare I-beam steel infrastructure of the old west wing. Only its attic has been left intact.
On the "roof" of the new southwest wing. This gives us a glimpse of the lounge being built up here. Access will be from elevator, or connection to the third floor of the adjacent central wing. To the left of this scene is an entry to the old attic of the west wing, previously inaccessible for years.
Inside the Old Attic in the roof of the West Wing.
Known as the '2 1/2 story' of this building, several dormitory-style rooms and apartments were up here. All completely original, this area is the oldest surviving section of the White House Hotel.
Meanwhile, over in the central 'Mediterranean' wing...On the first floor of the central wing, columns and other fixtures were still waiting late in 2000 to be restored and put back to good use.
By August, 2001, it seems that the work has slacked up quite a bit, on any given day maybe only two or three people would be on the site, busy with a few exterior chores. This only indicates the closing of one of the reconstruction phases. Word was given that the next furious phase of the work would commence after the next meeting of representatives of all parties concerned early in September 2001, and then the last leg of the restoration will be under way. Pictured below, the most recent work this Summer, the the floor has been removed from most of the wing, leaving a narrow walk course, the supporting concrete system, and the bare earth.
