University of Virginia Library

ATTACHMENT A =
Excerpt from Minutes
of Design Committee
Meeting

Jeffersonian Restoration Advisory Board
MINUTES OF DESIGN COMMITTEE MEETING
October 21, 1987

2. Having approved at its last meeting the encapsulation and replication of Jeffersonian era metal plates, the Committee continued its deliberations regarding the roof of Pavilion X, to decide about the color of the metal and whether or not to reconstruct the large parapet that comprised an open-topped attic zone (n.b., not enclosed attic space).

Messrs. Mesick and Waite presented the archaeological findings in regard to both subjects, advising that the parapet be rebuilt. Since paint analysis indicated that a rich gray paint color had probably been used originally, the Committee voted unanimously to recommend painting the new metal plates accordingly. Following prolonged discussion of the extensive evidence about how the Pavilion X parapet was designed and constructed, the Committee agreed with the proposal to rebuild it. It was clearly stated that this recommendation to reconstruct can only apply to Pavilion X; at any of the other Pavilions thought to have had rooftop parapets or balustrades, an identical search of records and building fabric must be carried out before deciding whether or not to reconstruct. Such a posture is in accordance with our emphasis on the necessity of complete research as the basis for design decisions. The Committee also agreed that the design of the new parapet must be integrated with the reestablishment of the metal roofing and must not allow water and debris to collect behind the parapet.

The Committee voted unanimously to recommend to the full Board and, in turn, to the Board of Visitors, that Jefferson's early parapet be reestablished in a failsafe manner atop a metal roof painted gray. The Committee also stressed the need to properly fund the design and construction of this special parapet work, which goes beyond the simple need to replace a failing roof.