Preservation Periodical: Volume 4, Issue 2
Summer 2025
The office of Architectural History and Historic Preservation (AHHP) was organized in 1986 to act as curator of the Smithsonian Institution's diverse campus of buildings. AHHP builds the heritage of Smithsonian buildings and the Castle Collection through preservation, research, and education.
This biannual newsletter provides opportunities to learn more about current historic preservation practice, collections management, Smithsonian historic resources, projects, and connection with AHHP staff. Click any tile below to read the corresponding article.
Upcoming Events and Project Spotlight
AHHP is engaged in Section 106 consultation in accordance with the National Historic Preservation Act on the below projects. Please visit the AHHP webpage to learn more and for information on upcoming public consultation meetings. Consider attending a public meeting to be part of consultation on current and future Smithsonian projects that have potential to affect historic properties, and ways to avoid adverse effects on historic properties where possible.
Construct Integrated Bezos Learning Center
This project involves the design and construction of an addition to the east end of the National Air and Space Museum to house the Bezos Learning Center. The Center aims to provide a world-class educational facility and will serve as a pan-Institution resource, overseen by the Air and Space Museum. The addition will house a restaurant accessible from the Museum’s main level, as well as a public Astronomy Park and a permanent location for the Phoebe Waterman Haas Public Observatory.
Section 106 consultation began in August 2023 and concluded in May 2025. A Memorandum of Agreement to resolve the adverse effect from this project was executed. Please visit the project webpage to review the Agreement document and the Section 106 consultation record.
Hirshhorn Revitalize Building and Plaza
This project aims to renovate the Hirshhorn to better support current and future needs of contemporary artists. Design work will focus on upgrading infrastructure, enhancing accessibility and security, and expanding amenities and operational and programming spaces. These improvements are intended to enhance the visitor experience and accommodate a significant increase in visitation.
Section 106 consultation began in September 2023 and is temporarily on pause. Consulting Parties meetings will resume in fall 2025. Please visit the project webpage for more information.