Martin House Update

I got an email today from one of the 999786427642 people I work under at the Martin House that gives a really detailed construction update on the Martin House…

“The following information is provided so that you can be well informed, as well as give our guests the most current information about the
Martin House restoration project. The reconstruction of the pergola, conservatory and carriage house is nearing completion.
Installation of the HVAC system for these buildings is the major focus at this time, along with completing the installation of all doors,
windows and remaining millwork. The new electrical system, which will be an underground service, is also near to being activated.
The second floor of the carriage house still has a significant amount of “build out” work which will be completed in December.
The current schedule calls for substantial completion of all buildings by December 28th. The MHRC will take possession of the buildings
as soon as a certificate of occupancy has been issued by the city, which should be at that time. Installation of the museum shop will take
place during the final weeks of December and early January.

Looking ahead to our next phase of work, the board of directors has authorized the advertisement for bids on Phase IV of the project.
At the heart of this phase is the exterior restoration of the masonry of the Martin House itself … from repair of step-cracking in the piers, to replacement of missing or broken bricks, to reversal of non-historic conditions, to re-pointing mortar for the first time in 100 years.
The plans also include restoration of window framework, as well as the installation of an ADA approved entry system at the bursar’s
door, structural restoration of the main fireplace and the completion of the restoration of the verandah. The documents are scheduled
to go out to bid in December, and contracts should be awarded in January, with actual construction work lasting approximately twelve months.
As always, it is our intention to keep the site open during the restoration process. This next phase of work is vitally important and is the
necessary precursor to the installation of updated mechanical systems and interior restoration of the plaster and woodwork inside the
Martin House. The Visitor Center design project is still progressing, but no actual date to begin construction has been determined
at this time.”

It’s going to be amazing, especially when they finally get crackin on the construction of the visitors center designed by Toshiko Mori. I saw the designs of it and i swear to you the interior and all its’ features will blow you away. Right now the museum shop is in the Barton House which is in the back. It’s old and creaky and small. It gets super jammed right before tours begin and gets a little chaotic. Regardless, come in and buy a book and take a tour. You’ll appreciate the fully restored complex even more when you’ve seen it before its glory.