The Texas Governor’s Mansion was undergoing a deferred maintenance program when a fire caused by an arsonist’s incendiary device severely damaged the Texas landmark on June 8, 2008. Recovery efforts began immediately to stabilize the building and salvage historic materials. In 2009, the State Preservation Board retained Ford, Powell & Carson to complete an interior and exterior restoration of the mansion.
The restoration of the historic 1856 original structure and 1914 addition encompassed the repair and restoration of all elements damaged by the fire, including the extensive reuse of salvaged materials, such as bricks, wood and plaster cornices, and historic hardware, where possible. The project also included the construction of a 2500sf addition at the rear of the building, a new security screening facility, new landscaping, and utility upgrades.
Texas Governor's Mansion Interior Restoration
The exterior restoration included repairs to the brick walls and chimneys, the installation of a new roof, restoration of the iconic front porch, including repairs to the six ionic columns and the wood entablature, as well as the restoration of all window and doors.
On the interior, where historic elements were missing or damaged beyond repair, they were reconstructed to match their historic appearance. Damaged interior wood framing was replaced and historic room dimensions were preserved. All existing plaster walls were restored and reclaimed long leaf pine floors installed to match the historic appearance. The existing 1914 addition and in the new 2012 addition were configured to house new ADA public bathrooms, a code compliant stair, and private living quarters for the Governor. All new mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems were installed, including a state-of-the-art geothermal HVAC system and solar water heating system.
The project was awarded a 2-star Residential Rating by the Austin Green Building Program and LEED Gold designation. It is once again is open to the public for tours and continues to serve as the official residence of the Governor of the State of Texas. The mansion and its contents, known as the Mansion Collection, constitute one of the most historic buildings in Texas, recognized as a National Register Site and as a Texas State Archaeological Landmark.