Washington, DC

Folger Shakespeare Library

B&F was brought in as the Owner’s Representative just before construction began on a complex 12,000-square-foot underground addition to the Shakespeare Folger Library’s historic Paul Cret building. The addition and corresponding renovations completely transform the entrance and visitor experience while displaying the Library’s collection of 82 of Shakespeare’s folios.

Project TypeNew Construction, Renovation, Historic Restoration
Construction Cost$50M
Project Size40,000-square-foot Renovation and 12,000-square-foot Addition
ArchitectKieran Timberlake
BuilderGilbane

Coordinating Consultants, Security, and Multifaceted Approvals

Harmonizing Various Project Streams

The project team worked diligently on constructability and sequence planning. B&F stepped in to coordinate the collections planning, audio visual needs, furniture, experience design, and other direct consultants to the Owner. We worked closely with the overall team to integrate these critical project streams into the constructability and sequencing plan.

Navigating Construction Near the Nation’s Capital

A construction project at The Folger Shakespeare Library is challenging given its location across from the US Supreme Court, the US Capitol, and the Library of Congress. There are additional layers of security and approvals required due to its location, and the Architect of the Capitol must be kept informed of the project’s progress. B&F served as an extension of the Library’s staff, continually communicating with the Architect of the Capitol, navigating the extra security requirements, and assisting the Library with securing approvals.