The Architecture Team, consisting of historians, conservators, preservation specialists, and carpenters, leads the investigation and restoration of the estate’s physical fabric including the historic buildings and structures across the estate.

The team analyzes documentary and physical evidence in tandem. The goal is to represent the architectural landscape at George Washington's estate consistent with its 1799 appearance,  conserving and protecting existing 18th-century architectural elements, and creating a thorough archival record for future generations. As each project progresses, theories and documentation are continually revised to reflect the ongoing synthesis of evidence.

West Front Restoration

West Front Restoration

For Mount Vernon's preservation staff to restore the west front of the Mansion scaffolding was erected. During the project, up to 28 layers of paint and sand were removed and all of the architectural elements were accessed and conserved. Once repairs were completed, the siding was repainted and sanded.

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Paint Analysis

Paint Analysis

All of the rooms in the Mansion have been painted over and over since Washington's life. So, how do we know what color to paint each room?

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Expansion of Mount Vernon's Mansion

Expansion of Mount Vernon's Mansion

In 1754, George Washington began residing at Mount Vernon, a 3,000 acre estate and a house that likely approximated 3,500 square feet. By his death, Washington’s Mount Vernon consisted of about 7,600 acres and an almost 11,000 square foot mansion.

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Dispatches from Dodge

Dispatches from Dodge

Over the years, the Preservation team has found several hidden messages throughout the Mansion from Mount Vernon’s longest-serving superintendent, Harrison Howell Dodge.

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Enslaved Labor

Enslaved Labor

Enslaved individuals used their skills to construct and repair many of Mount Vernon’s buildings, including the Mansion itself.

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Preservation Work

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6:50

A Major Change to George Washington's house...

39,622 views 6 years ago
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1:50

Front Parlor Restoration | Project Introduction

3,363 views 6 years ago
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3:08

The Newly Restored Blue Room At Mount Vernon

13,849 views 6 years ago
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3:52

New Room Restoration

3,331 views 8 years ago
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