08/25/2026
This month, we are highlighting our ongoing collaboration with RRMM Architects at Virginia Commonwealth University’s historic Williams House in Richmond.
Built in 1890–1891, Williams House is a Romanesque Revival residence designed by noted Richmond architect Marion J. Dimmock. Distinguished by its massive rock-faced granite exterior, the building was acquired by VCU’s predecessor institution and today houses offices associated with VCU’s Department of African American Studies.
WDP was engaged to evaluate the exterior envelope and develop repair documents, with one of the central challenges being the need to balance historic preservation best practices with the performance demands of a modern academic facility. One example is the restoration strategy for the wood windows and leaded stained glass, which extended the service life of these historic elements while also improving the energy efficiency of the building envelope by reducing air leakage.
WDP also provided design services for the replacement of the terra cotta, flat-seam metal, and EPDM roofs. Roof replacement at a historic building requires careful consideration of how changes in materials and insulation can affect long-term moisture performance and durability. Drawing on WDP’s involvement in the development of ASTM E3258-25, “Standard Guide for Evaluation of Changes to the Thermal, Moisture and Ventilation Performance of Existing Roof Enclosures (with Vented or Sealed Attic or Rafter Spaces),” as well as our experience with hygrothermal modeling, the project team evaluated these considerations as part of the roof design to support a restoration that preserves the building’s historic character while promoting long-term performance.
