The Smithsonian “Castle” will close Feb. 1 for a five-year renovation

The iconic building will undergo extensive repairs and renovations beginning in March.

The Smithsonian Institution Building, the iconic “Castle,” will close to the public Wednesday, Feb. 1, for its first major renovation in more than 50 years. The building— a designated National Historic Landmark which opened in 1855 as the first Smithsonian building—will undergo extensive repairs and upgrades beginning in March, and the renovation is expected to last about five years.

Approximately 150 staff members who work in the Castle will be relocated to Capital Gallery, a nearby office building owned by the Smithsonian, at 600 Maryland Ave. S.W., in Washington, D.C. Those affected by the move will receive more information in the weeks ahead.

The Enid A. Haupt Garden will remain open during the renovation, and pedestrian routes on both sides of the Castle will allow access from the National Mall to the National Museum of African Art, the Arthur M. Sackler Gallery and the garden. To continue to serve in-person and virtual visitors, the Smithsonian’s Visitor Center will expand its online services while exploring other in-person visitor services opportunities.

The virtual Visitor Center website will launch in early February and include several new features that will enable users to build an itinerary, interact with live volunteers who can help plan visits and embark on virtual tours hosted by live docents. Visitors also will be able to download the Adventure Lab app, which will guide them through touchless scavenger hunts to enhance the exploration of the Smithsonian. The online center will continue to feature information about museum hours and locations, entry guidelines, brochures and maps, dining and shopping options, accessibility and details about visiting with groups.

In addition to interior upgrades, the upcoming renovation will include restoration and replacement of windows; restoration of the roof and exterior stonework; replacement of all mechanical, electrical and plumbing systems; and replacement of life-safety, security and information technology systems. The building’s red sandstone exterior will remain unchanged.

When the renovation is complete, visitors will walk into a dramatic Great Hall restored to its original appearance with decorative finishes and terrazzo floors. The café, shop and restrooms will have been expanded and moved to the lower level. Also, the floor with office space directly above the Great Hall, added in 1968, will be removed, allowing the Upper Great Hall to return to its original two-story height and become a venue for public programming once again.

Although I know many of my colleagues will miss working each day in this beautiful and historic building—as will I—I also know you join me in anticipating the long-delayed and exciting restoration of the symbol of our Institution.

As always, thank you for all that you do that enables the Smithsonian to look forward to a new year and a new future.

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