Illuminating History

Outdoor Illumination has developed a reputation as a trusted resource for designing and installing exterior lighting at historic properties (see the Historic gallery). We are proud that our work can be seen at many historic sites around the Washington DC region, including:

• Tudor Place, Georgetown, Washington DC
• The Vice President's Residence, Observatory Circle, Washington DC
• Blair House, The President's Guest House, Washington DC
• Decatur House, Lafayette Square, Washington DC
• William Paca House and Garden, Annapolis MD
• Hill Center at the Old Naval Hospital, Washington DC (see our work featured in a recent Hill Center news release: "Hill Center's Historic Carriage House to Become Bayou Bakery, Coffee House and Eatery").
• Dumbarton Oaks, Georgetown, Washington DC (featured in our September 2014 eNewsletter)
• The Rosedale Conservancy, Cleveland Park, Washington DC
• Sewall-Belmont House and Museum, Capitol Hill, Washington DC

Lighting at historic properties requires an extra level of design sensitivity. The aesthetics need to represent, not overwhelm, the dignity of the place, with fixtures shining the right amount of light when it’s dark out, but remaining largely invisible during the day. We are often working in areas with historic trees, which calls for great care when installing wiring for the new lighting systems. Many historic properties are heavily visited, so systems need to be durable. And, there are often a number of hurdles involving historic designations, plus benefactor considerations. Our long experience and top reputation have helped us navigate these hurdles with ease and success.

For a more in-depth look at a historic lighting project, read about our work at Dumbarton Oaks.