Period
1700
The College of Willam & Mary: Wren Building Ramp
HISTORIC LEGACY
Located within the Old College Yard on the grounds of the College of William & Mary, the Sir Christopher Wren Building is the oldest college building still standing in the United States and the oldest of the restored public buildings in Williamsburg. The building was originally built between 1695 and 1700 and has been destroyed by fires in 1705, 1859, and 1862.
Following each fire, the interior was rebuilt. Between 1928 and 1931, the Wren building was restored to its colonial appearance as part of the Rockefeller restoration of Williamsburg. Today, the building continues to hold students and faculty for campus events, classes, lectures.
Christopher Wren
PROJECT OVERVIEW
For many years, a mechanical lift at the western covered piazza provided access to the elevated first floor. Following its failure, a temporary wooden ramp was installed at the north façade. Under a term contract with the college, MCWB was tasked with developing a design to improve universal access by designing a permanent ramp to provide safe and unencumbered access for students and visitors attending classes or special events.
DESIGN
Because of the Wren Building’s national significance, multiple ramp locations were considered. The front and rear facades were ruled out due to their architectural importance and ceremonial use, while the north façade was negated to maintain access to the basement and preserve the light provided through the windows.
The south façade was chosen as the ideal placement for the ramp. Even though below ground utilities provided challenges for the location of the ramp, the above ground space and connections to existing paths allowed for design opportunities that would meet the Secretary of the Interiors Standards for Rehabilitation.
South facade ramp location
The design of the ramp combines modern aesthetic with traditional materials and detailing to compliment the historic building. To meet clearance requirements, the 1930’s Colonial-style door and frame were redesigned to fit within the masonry opening and preserve its historic character. MCWB collaborated with multiple stakeholders from William & Mary during the design process, including the Virginia Department of Historic Resources.
REALIZATION
The completion of this project not only improves accessibility to the Wren Building but also reflects its historic legacy through selected materials and design sensitivity. Blending seamlessly with the facade of the building, the ramp strikes a thoughtful balance between modern function and historic context.
We make the buildings that secure your place in time. Designing for the future while honoring the past—this is where historic and contemporary architecture come together.
ALBANY
388 Broadway, Albany, New York 12207
WILLIAMSBURG
402 W Duke of Gloucester Street
Suite 240,
Williamsburg, Virginia 23185
CONTACT
518.433.9394
info@mcwb-arch.com