Dumbarton Oaks Swimming Pool
Project Context
The Dumbarton Oaks Swimming Pool restoration project represents a careful balance between preserving a historic landmark and implementing modern aquatic facility standards. Originally constructed in the 1930s as part of the estate's recreational facilities, this pool required comprehensive restoration to address structural deterioration while maintaining its historic character.
Landmark Logix led a comprehensive renovation that included complete structural repairs, installation of modern filtration and chemical treatment systems, restoration of historic tilework and coping, and enhanced landscape integration. The project required close coordination with historic preservation specialists to ensure all work met National Park Service standards while delivering a fully functional, safe, and sustainable aquatic facility.
Special attention was given to water efficiency, chemical management, and accessibility improvements. The restored pool now serves as both a functioning amenity for Dumbarton Oaks scholars and a preserved example of 1930s estate architecture, demonstrating that historic preservation and modern functionality can coexist seamlessly.
Project Details
- Location
- Washington, DC
- Client
- Dumbarton Oaks
- Architect
- —
- Construction Manager
- —
- Duration
- 20 Months
- Project Value
- $5.8M
- Project Type
- —
- Sector
- Cultural & Arts
- Categories
- Historic Preservation, Cultural Institution, Specialized Facility
Delivery Challenge
Restoring a historic 1930s swimming pool to modern aquatic facility standards presented a unique set of challenges, requiring the team to address decades of structural deterioration while preserving the pool's original design character, and to reconcile contemporary water quality and safety requirements with strict historic preservation standards.
- Restoring a 1930s estate pool to modern aquatic facility standards
- Addressing structural deterioration while preserving historic design
- Meeting modern safety and water quality requirements
- Coordinating specialized aquatic engineering with preservation standards
Owner-Side Advisory Role
Landmark Logix provided project leadership for this specialized restoration, coordinating preservation specialists, structural engineers, and aquatic facility consultants.
Project Highlights
Project Gallery
Project Timeline
Phase 1: Initial Assessment
Structural evaluation, historic documentation, and planning phase with preservation specialists
Phase 2: Structural Repairs
Pool shell restoration, leak mitigation, and foundation stabilization work
Phase 3: Systems Installation
Modern filtration, chemical treatment, and circulation systems integrated with historic design
Phase 4: Final Completion
Restored historic pool with modern functionality, safety features, and landscape integration
Key Achievements
55% Water Savings
Modern circulation and filtration systems reduced water consumption by 55% annually
Historic Preservation Award
Received DC Historic Preservation Award for exemplary restoration work
Zero Structural Issues
Comprehensive repairs eliminated all leaks and structural concerns
ADA Compliant
Full accessibility improvements including pool lift and barrier-free access
On-Time Delivery
Project completed on schedule despite weather challenges and historic requirements
Enhanced Safety
Modern safety systems including automated chemical monitoring and emergency protocols
Scope of Services
Landmark Logix provided comprehensive project management and construction oversight for this historic pool restoration, coordinating all aspects of the work from initial assessment through final commissioning.
- Historic preservation planning and NPS compliance coordination
- Structural engineering and aquatic systems design coordination
- Contractor selection and construction management
- Quality control and historic materials verification
- Budget management and value engineering solutions
- Schedule optimization and milestone tracking
- Stakeholder communication and reporting
- Final commissioning and operational training
Advisory Services Applied
Explore the owner-side advisory capabilities relevant to this engagement.
Construction Management & Quality Control
Independent field oversight, quality assurance, and contractor accountability — ensuring what gets built matches what was designed and contracted.
Procurement & Financial Management
Strategic procurement, financial oversight, and budget controls that protect owner capital and hold vendors accountable throughout delivery.
Contract Administration & Risk Management
Owner-side contract oversight, change order management, risk visibility, and dispute prevention that keep projects on terms and on track.
Considering owner-side advisory for a specialized facility restoration?
Landmark Logix provides experienced project leadership and owner-focused oversight to help deliver complex facility restoration and preservation projects.