Built in 1861, the Renwick Gallery is one of the oldest and most iconic buildings in the Washington, DC area. It is also on the National Register of Historic Places. Plans for renovating the 51,000-SF masonry structure included a nearly complete replacement of the mechanical, electrical, plumbing, and lighting systems. Due to the age of the structure, significant structural modifications and strengthening were required.

Because of these historical and unique factors, OCMI incorporated in-depth, local market studies and coordinated closely with the architect and owner to deliver cost estimating and scheduling services for the $25 million renovation.

Throughout an iterative, seven-step process, OCMI conducted market studies and outreach to the construction industry and subcontractors for feasibility and pricing. We factored in unique project considerations, such as its location (adjacent to The White House), moratorium planning (area closures), as well as extensive planning requirements. We also assisted the Smithsonian Institution with pricing and identifying multiple alternatives of varying scope.

Because of OCMI’s efforts, the Renwick Gallery project was bid less than a 1 percent variance from our estimate, and the CPM construction schedule was adopted and confirmed.