Pre-Construction Update: July 2025
Montgomery History is thrilled to present an update on our Montgomery County History Center project. Currently, we are in the Design and Development (DD) process, which is when the schematic design is refined into a detailed plan, focusing on material selection, structural details, and integrating building systems like electrical, plumbing, and HVAC. We are looking at every detail from what color the trim should be to where we should place the water fountains, and everything else in between. It is exciting for us to start to see the vision come together! Here is an update on everything that has happened so far:
In the fall of 2023, Executive Director Matt Logan identified the Farmers Banking and Trust building as an ideal location for the Montgomery County History Center and began working with M&T Bank, the owner, to begin acquisition negotiations. In February 2024, schematic design meetings began between Matt Logan, architect Bill Stablein, contractor Dan Coffey, and MH staff as part of the initial process to determine the layout of functions within the building, and to develop a rough estimate of renovation costs. After the appropriate inspections and due diligence, the purchase was finalized in January 2025.
During December 2024, when we were certain we were going forward with the purchase, we engaged Julia Wright of Pillar Development, a woman-owned firm, to serve as our construction manager. Julia has over 35 years of experience managing construction and real estate development projects of all sizes, including historic structures including the National Cathedral. She created an RFP for architectural services and after receiving multiple bids, we selected Knu Design to do the work. Scott Knudson, the principal, is LEED accredited, and has 40 years of experience in office, assembly spaces, interiors, and historic renovations.
With the architect on board, and after a competitive process, we contracted with Henley Construction in February for pre-construction services. Their primary responsibility is to provide conceptual budget pricing from initial concept drawings and at subsequent drawing milestones including schematic design, design documentation, 50% construction drawings, and permit set.
On July 2, Scott, Matt, and the MH staff met at the Farmers Banking and Trust Building to test carpet, paint, tile, and lighting samples. The staff walked through each room and discussed how best to highlight the existing Art Deco features such as the coupon rooms, light fixtures on the first floor, the transoms over the doors, and the bank vaults and deposit boxes. MH is consulting with the Art Deco Society of Washington, DC to ensure the new design complements the historical decor. In upcoming weeks, MH will complete the DD process and begin construction bidding.
If you have any comments or are interested in learning more about this project, including named space opportunities, contact Director of Development Brenna Ryan. Stay tuned for our next update!