Letter
Dear Mr. Rombach:
During its meeting of 15 January, the Commission approved the proposed concept for the perimeter security barriers for the museums of the Smithsonian Institution on the National Mall, including the National Museums of American History and Natural History, S. Dillon Ripley Center, Smithsonian Institution Building, Freer Gallery of Art, National Museum of African Art, Arthur M. Sackler Gallery, Arts and Industries Building, Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden, and National Air and Space Museum. The architects are commended for their thoughtful design that is sensitive to the existing structures while creating a cohesive approach responding to the urban condition surrounding the mall. As the project progresses, the Commission encourages a singular, contemporary design for the security booths, rather than referencing the architecture of the existing buildings. In addition, the continued coordination with the ongoing sign program is crucial to the success of the project.
The Commission looks forward to the further review of this project.
Sincerely,
/s/
Charles H. Atherton Secretary
Mr. Harry Rombach, R.A.
Associate Director for Facilities Master Planning Smithsonian Institution
Office of Facilities Plamling & Resources
PO Box 37012, VB5200 MRC 908
Washington, DC 20013-7012
cc: Hany Hassan, Beyer, Blinder, Belle R
Roger Courtenay, EDAW