Belle Grove, located on the banks of the Rappahannock River, is the birth site of James Madison. Commonwealth Architects was first tasked with structurally reinforcing and stabilizing the circa 1792 house. Once the structural repairs were completed, four additions were designed to be historically compatible with, yet distinguishable from the original architectural detailing. The project included a new standing seam copper roof, the restoration of the Seneca Brownstone steps and the repair of all original woodwork and windows. The exterior and interior restoration was completed according to the Secretary of the Interior’s Standards for Rehabilitation and historic rehabilitation tax credits were obtained. The house was reappointed to serve as a corporate retreat.
