Montana State Capitol
A historic Montana masterpiece.
Montana State Capitol
ARCHITECTURE | INTERIORS
The Montana State Capitol building overlooks the beautiful Prickly Pear Valley in Helena, Montana. As “the people’s house,” the neoclassical building holds the state legislature and governor’s office, yet remains open to the public for self-guided tours. A nearly two-decade-long renovation restored the building’s original appeal after a series of insensitive remodels jeopardized its historic character. The renovation revived the exterior envelope, reorganized internal functions, and upgraded building systems. With its intricate art, awe-inspiring dome ceiling, and ornate detailing, the Capitol building earns its local moniker, “The crown jewel of the Treasure State.”
Montana State Capitol
A historic Montana masterpiece.
ARCHITECTURE
INTERIORS
The Montana State Capitol building overlooks the beautiful Prickly Pear Valley in Helena, Montana. As “the people’s house,” the neoclassical building holds the state legislature and governor’s office, yet remains open to the public for self-guided tours. A nearly two-decade-long renovation restored the building’s original appeal after a series of insensitive remodels jeopardized its historic character. The renovation revived the exterior envelope, reorganized internal functions, and upgraded building systems. With its intricate art, awe-inspiring dome ceiling, and ornate detailing, the Capitol building earns its local moniker, “The crown jewel of the Treasure State.”
Bringing back a historic aesthetic
In the 1960’s, the building was completely gutted, losing countless historic features. To recreate the original interior, the design team restored lost elements through forensic research. Light fixtures were reproduced, paint analysis determined original colors, and historic art and sculpture was reinstated to renew the Capitol’s reputation as a public house for Western history.
Restoring exterior beauty and style
A field investigation and exterior analysis addressed the sandstone deterioration, followed by detailed drawings and technical specifications for the restoration of all damaged stone. Windows were replaced to reflect the historic context, while artful landscaping enhanced the exterior design.
Preserving majestic elegance
The interior defines classic elegance with abundant detailing, elaborate tilework, and rich colors. As a key component of the renovation, the reconstructed rotunda creates a breathtaking effect with soaring dome ceiling, while tile flooring reminiscent of the original glass floor allows light to filter downward to the lowest level.