Olmsted established the first full-scale landscape architecture office in the U.S. here in 1883. It was also the Olmsted family residence during the last 15 years of his professional life.

The renovations will include replacing the circa 1925 sprinkler system in the office and barn. Other scheduled work:

• heating, cooling and ventilation systems to all buildings and dehumidification in archives research areas where feasible;
• new site utilities (gas, electrical, communications, sanitary, etc.);
• upgrade security systems in all buildings;
• mitigate inadequate site drainage to eliminate periodic flooding;
• structural upgrades for all first story rooms in the office with exception of the plans vault of buildings, grounds and archives research and storage areas;
• and repair and rehabilitate barn to accommodate three-season use of the first floor for education programs and public meetings.

Myra Harrison, the superintendent, expects the Olmsted National Historic Site to re-open in fall 2008.