Letter
Dear Dr. Elias:
During its meeting 21 April 2005, the Commission reviewed and approved the concept design for the proposed rehabilitation and alterations to the Administration Building at the National Arboretum. The replacement windows using butt-joint insulated glass units will eliminate the need for a central exterior mullion that will help to preserve the appearance and character of the existing large windows that are integral to the original design of the building. Great care needs to be taken in the specification of the glazing used in the new insulated glass units to ensure that the transparency and color of the whole unit matches that of the existing single-glazed windows. Similar attention should be given in detailing the vestibule additions at the entrances to the lobby. The members’ preference was for Option 6, as presented in the submitted project booklets, which shows a full-height vestibule matching the framing of the glass wall behind.
We look forward to the review of the construction drawings, including details and material samples of the glass unit, at your earliest convenience. As always, the staff is available to assist you.
Sincerely,
/s/Thomas Luebke, AIA
Secretary
Dr. Thomas S. Elias, Director
U.S. National Arboretum
United States Department of Agriculture
3501 New York Avenue, NE
Washington, D.C. 20002-1958
cc: Judy Morrison, USDA
Scott Aker, USNA