Period
1938-1958
University of Virginia: Pavilion III
Location
Charlottesville, Virginia
Notables
National Historic Landmark
HISTORICAL LEGACY
Building on the successful restoration of the Jefferson-era parapet at Pavilion X, the University of Virginia retained MCWB Architects to reinstate the missing Jefferson-period balustrade at nearby Pavilion III. This balustrade, missing since the late 19th century, was recreated using the firm’s innovative laser scanning technology.
Thomas Jefferson
RESEARCH & DOCUMENTATION
Since 1986, the University of Virginia has made dedicated efforts to preserve its Jefferson-designed buildings, ensuring each structure is thoroughly studied before any work is done. Under a term contract with the University, MCWB Architects conducted a Historic Structure Report for Pavilion III, uncovering the building’s complete history and significance across every period of its existence.
This report provided the University with carefully prioritized restoration recommendations, balancing the building’s needs with practical construction considerations, University goals, and budget. Additionally, MCWB proposed ways to restore missing Jefferson-era features, bringing renewed historical integrity to this vital part of the Academical Village.
SCHEMATIC DESIGN
After laser scanning the entire building, the scans were superimposed over the historic photographs showing the original balustrade.
Then, using reverse perspective software, the balustrade was perfectly proportioned to accurately match the original photographs.
RESTORATION
The details of this feature were developed based on the firm’s in-depth knowledge of Jeffersonian architecture. MCWB has also restored Jefferson’s balustrade on his home at Monticello as well as at his second home at Poplar Forest.
