Renovation of the interior, exterior and grounds of the most prestigious housing at the United States Naval Academy, Buchanan House. Originally constructed in 1907 and home to the Superintendent of the United States Naval Academy, Buchanan house is second only to the White House in hosting visiting heads of state.

Renovations to the exterior of Buchanan House consisted of removal and replacement of the garage, removal and replacement of deteriorated portions of the brick wall which borders the gardens and front yard, removal, relocation and replacement of site utilities including steam, condensate, chilled water and electrical services. Installation of a new lawn sprinkler system, removal and replacement of the back porch, removal and replacement of deteriorated exterior wood surfaces, painting of all exterior wood and metal surfaces, reconfiguration, resurfacing and replacement of walks and asphalt drives to provide handicap access. Installation of chimney caps complete with draft inducing fans. Tuck pointing, cleaning, major repair and replacement of brick exteriors. Repairs to slate roofing and installation of a new expanded skylight.

Interior work included the selective demolition of all walls and ceilings to allow for the installation of completely new dual temperature water and sprinkler systems as well as upgrades to the electrical systems and the installation of new security and communications systems. Removal and replacement of deteriorated plaster walls, ceilings and decorative moldings. Installation of an elevator system which provided direct access from the basement entry level to the first floor. Removal, replication and replacement of true divided light single pane windows with true divided light, low profile, double pane insulated glass without compromising the design and profile of the original windows. Removal, replication and replacement of wood trims, wood doors and frames. Restoration of brass hardware. Removal, replication and replacement of deteriorated wood flooring. Providing a new galley capable of preparing the quantities of food required for functions held at Buchanan House. Interior painting throughout. Creation of new mens’ and ladies’ restroom facilities. Restoration of historic light fixtures and chandeliers.

Discovering hidden asbestos insulation and abating lead paint, as well as removal and replacement of large amounts of deteriorated plaster which had been hidden behind layers of wall coverings, added a significant amount of work to a project that had a completion date that simply could not be compromised.

This project was very intense, high profile and meeting its challenges took the Navy, Tuckman-Barbee and its employees, subcontractors and suppliers to a higher degree of excellence. Once completed, there was a collective sigh of relief by all.