Constructed in 1879, this building is one of the finest examples of Victorian Architecture in the nation and has become a national landmark. The museum is the archivist for some of the nation’s most treasured museum pieces. In support of the preservation and protection of these treasures, MMM renovated the museum’s multiple zones with special condition humidification and temperature-controlled air. Treated, decentralized steam generated humidified air was distributed through existing ducting, reusing many of the mechanical components of the original system.

The architectural quality and historical significance of the building dictated major restoration to insure the longest possible life. MMM took a preservation standpoint to restore the building exterior to its 1879 appearance. Restoration was based on architectural research, which documented the earliest historical evidence available of the original exterior appearance.

The restoration included the total roof systems, rehabilitation of the roof’s decaying structural system, comprehensive masonry restoration, window renovations, and modification of mechanical systems to eliminate non-original elements from the building exterior. The plan also called for restoration of unique building components, such as entrances, gates, lighting, and decorative elements. The restored three-story facility included 100,000 SF.