History & Discoveries
Article
The Rotunda was completed under the direction of Charles Bulfinch by the time of the visit of the Marquis de Lafayette in October 1824.
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Basic page
The Architect of the Capitol summer internship program is for current students.
Person
The Deputy Architect aids the Architect in leading the agency's mission to serve Congress and the Supreme Court, preserve America's Capitol and inspire memorable experiences.
From the Architect
Article
Get to know the newest Architect of the Capitol.
Basic page
Single stall restrooms are available to the public in the following locations.
Behind the Scenes
Article
The Photography and Technical Imaging Branch (PTIB) is responsible for the documentation of the historical buildings and grounds under the care of the Architect of the Capitol (AOC) and capturing the historic events within those spaces.
Public Notice
Article
The statue, given by Arkansas to the National Statuary Hall Collection, was dedicated in the U.S. Capitol Visitor Center's Emancipation Hall.
Public Notice
Article
Construction has officially begun on the 2025 presidential inaugural platform at the U.S. Capitol.
Highlight
Sixteen columns in the small Senate rotunda of the U.S. Capitol feature tobacco capitals designed by Benjamin H. Latrobe, then modeled and carved by Francisco Iardella. A different tobacco motif designed by Thomas U. Walter is also used in the capitals of the 28 columns in the Hall of Columns .
Highlight
Modeled after the ancient Greek drinking horn with a mythical chimera with bended knees.
Programs & Events
Article
While record setting heat and humidity engulfed the nation's capital this summer, the Architect of the Capitol (AOC) celebrated Christmas in July by embarking on an adventure to select the 2024 U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree.
History & Discoveries
Article
The 2024 Olympic mascot is a conical cap, the Phryge, a French symbol of freedom, but it symbolized freedom in the United States before the French adopted it.
Behind the Scenes
Article
Charles "Doc" Wheatley, Assistant Supervisor of the Capitol Building Plumbing Shop's evening shift, has been a constant presence on the Capitol campus since 1987. That's when he accepted his first government position and began a decades-long career serving this treasured institution.
Landing Page
The U.S. Capitol Grounds feature a collection of more than 4,800 trees throughout the entire 286-acre Capitol campus.
Behind the Scenes
Article
Thanking those who keep our trees thriving.
Highlight
This sweetgum was grown from the array of different seeds that flew nearly 270,000 miles from Earth and circled the moon aboard the Orion spacecraft.
Public Notice
Article
Thomas E. Austin, PE, CCM, PMP, has taken the oath of office.
Landing Page
The role of the Architect not only directs the construction of Capitol buildings but also supervises the day-to-day operation and maintenance of the entire Capitol campus.
Behind the Scenes
Article
The experts at the House Mechanic Shop meticulously oversee campus HVAC systems, ensuring building temperatures are optimal for both daily operations and historic preservation.
Highlight
The bur oak has been recognized as the state tree of Iowa since 1961 and it stands as a timeless symbol of longevity, resilience, stability and strength. This tree, appropriately located on the Senate side of the U.S. Capitol Grounds, honors Senator Grassley's service in the U.S. Senate.
Person
As the 13th Architect of the Capitol, Thomas E. Austin is responsible for leading the agency's mission to preserve and maintain the historic buildings and grounds across the Capitol campus.
Project
This two-phase project will replace the 85-year-old copper roof of the Library of Congress' John Adams Building.
Public Notice
Article
This sweetgum was grown from the array of different seeds that flew nearly 270,000 miles from Earth and circled the moon aboard the Orion spacecraft.
Behind the Scenes
Article
Donna Klee has worked for the Architect of the Capitol (AOC) for more than 10 years and was named the agency's Historic Preservation Officer in the fall of 2023. In this capacity, she works to implement the agency's preservation policy.
Highlight
U.S. Capitol Grounds memorial tree sponsored by Speaker Nancy Pelosi to honor Rep. John R. Lewis.
Projects
Article
More than 140 years later, the Architect of the Capitol's Summerhouse still offers visitors respite. Recent maintenance efforts will help keep the site around for repeat visitors and first timers alike.
Public Notice
Article
Highlights include articles focused on a project at the Summerhouse, sustainability at the U.S. Botanic Garden, HVAC work in the House office buildings and a spotlight on preservation.
Public Notice
Article
Located in Capitol Square, N.W., across from the Summerhouse.
Highlight
A tree honoring the life and service of Mr. Christopher Vetick, Architect of the Capitol (AOC) former Deputy Director of Capitol Grounds and Arboretum.
Public Notice
Article
The Architect of the Capitol, along with other legislative branch procurement offices, are hosting the event on June 25, 2024, from 9 a.m. to noon at the U.S. Capitol Visitor Center's Congressional Auditorium.