Decorative Architectural Restoration: Library of Congress, Washington, DC

The Thomas Jefferson Library of Congress in Washington, D.C., is one of the largest national libraries in the world. Before this building was constructed, the Library of Congress was housed in the U.S. Capitol’s west center building, but it eventually outgrew this space. In 1886, it was decided that the library should have its own location. In 1897, the new Library of Congress building was completed. At this time, it was the largest and most expensive library building in the world; its design incorporated many luxurious materials such as marble, granite, bronze, gold, and, of course, a tremendous amount of decorative copper work.

Fabrication of Decorative Sheet Metal and Ornamental Copper

Over time, the copper cupola and main dome, which covers the central reading room began to age and deteriorate. More than 70 sheet metal contractors were approached to take on this complex decorative restoration, but Heather & Little was ultimately awarded the project due to our proven expertise in historic metalwork.

Along with James Myers Co. of Maryland, our team worked to replicate the pressed ornamental copper stampings, decorative sheet metal elements, cornice for the building’s main dome, lantern, and “Flame of Knowledge” finial. Using sheet metal copper and a combination of traditional and modern techniques, our craftsmen carefully reproduced the original ornamental features of the distinctive dome atop the Library of Congress.

We are proud to note that this project received the NRCA Gold Circle Award for Outstanding Craftsmanship in Restoration. To learn more about Heather & Little’s decorative architectural restoration of the Thomas Jefferson Library of Congress, browse the project images below.