The Valentine Rehabilitation

The Valentine has been the city of Richmond’s history museum for more than 100 years. The facility is comprised of four houses of varying periods, including the restored Wickham House, a National Historic Landmark property; the Cecil House; and the Valentine Row Houses. The Owner sought to enliven the primary public spaces on the first and lower levels with a contemporary aesthetic that is sensitive to the historic character of the existing museum.

Glavé & Holmes transformed the interiors to conceal previously exposed infrastructure, creating refined spaces that honor the building’s historic character. Exterior windows were reopened and now feature filtered glazing, enhancing natural light and making the facility feel more open and inviting. Gallery spaces were expanded and reorganized to include a new community gallery, orientation gallery, and improved permanent and special exhibition galleries. Additionally, the education spaces and key public areas, including the entry, reception, and museum shop, were completely renovated to embody the new image of The Valentine.

The overall impact of the renovation has been remarkable both for the museum and the surrounding neighborhoods. The Valentine has seen a 30% increase in visitation since the reopening and a significant rise in the frequency of community-centered events.

• Design Achievement Award, 2019
• Virginia ASID/IIDA Interior Design Excellence Award, 2015