A. Grand Staircase
In perhaps the most anticipated change, we will restore the main entrance to the house to its earlier grandeur by returning an open grand staircase to the foyer. With the addition of sprinklers and secondary stairways, and advances in fire safety technology, we are no longer stuck with our utilitarian 1950s-era stairwell.
Not only will opening up the stairwell present visitors with a warmer, more aesthetically pleasing first impression, but it will expand the size of the foyer, restoring its original sight lines and proportions.
B. East Wing
The east wing of the house, including the Mitchell Room and the Chapter Room, will remain largely as they are, but with restoration applied to the finishes and fixtures. The obsolete fire escape along the eastern facade will be removed.
C. Reading Room
A new Reading Room will be built adjacent to the Chapter Room. With its two-story-high ceiling and exit to a new back porch, it will be an airy addition to the common space, and permit overflow from the Chapter Room to accommodate our growing chapter.
D. Gorge Overlook
The new porch provides direct access from the main floor to views of the gorge, and connects with new outdoor stairs permitting quick evacuation in an emergency.
E. Electronic Learning Center
A new common area will be built in the southwest corner of the house over the dining room, providing new, badly needed study space, and mirroring the Chapter Room on the opposite side of the house.
F. Powder Room
The current first floor powder room will be relocated to one of the small closets adjacent the front door, currently used as the mail room and the coat closet.