Exploring the Foundations of American Architecture: Montpelier, Monticello, and University of Virginia

Wed, September 25, 2013 / Charlottesville, VA

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Please join Members of the Leaders of Design Council and their guests to experience the remarkable architectural and cultural richness of the Charlottesville region via this extraordinary and exclusive program.

We will first visit Montpelier and immerse ourselves in the historical contributions and residential design of James and Dolley Madison. We will learn about the remarkable architectural evolution of the Mansion and its grounds, including the research, process, and execution of its renovations. Montpelier’s curators will offer further insights into the storied collections of ceramics, artwork, décor, and furniture. Our evening will conclude with local winetasting and dinner on the beautiful grounds of Barboursville Winery, on the grounds of a restored Georgian Estate.

The next day will focus on the astounding genius and myriad accomplishments of Thomas Jefferson. Under the direction of Susan R. Stein, Richard Gilder Senior Curator, our program will reveal the creative, philosophical and cultural impact of Mr. Jefferson’s designed and re-designed residence and gardens. Expert architectural historians will present our morning program, including lectures, tours and films.We will also visit with noted horticularists to learn about his pioneering gardens and their influential restoration. Following a private lunch in the Jefferson Library, we will spend the afternoon at Shack Mountain, touring this homage to Jeffersonian architecture built by the founder of the University of Virginia School of Architecture. That evening, we will have a truly unique experience: exclusive access to Monticello for cocktails on the North Terrace, followed by a celebratory dinner on Jefferson mountain in the Montalto Conservancy, overlooking the Blue Ridge Mountains and Charlottesville.

Friday morning we will explore the brilliant architectural and academic vision of Mr. Jefferson at the University of Virginia. Under the guidance of scholars of architecture and history, we will tour the campus and its famed buildings and lawn, followed by a private lunch.