State of Vermont Capitol Complex

Beginning with a 1968 master plan for the 55-acre complex, The Burley Partnership has served as architect for the State of Vermont on issues of site planning, new design, and historic preservation for the Capitol Complex.

The initial plan thoroughly analyzed the space requirements for an expanding state government: office square-footage standards, parking, vehicular and pedestrian circulation, open space, landscape standards, signage, utilities, accessibility, energy conservation, and historic preservation. As growth and change occurred, the plan was periodically revised to meet new development needs.

Under the architectural direction of The Burley Partnership, many of the planned elements have been achieved: the reconstruction and expansion of the Pavilion Office Building, linkage of the Pavilion into the Supreme Court Building, expansion of the State Library, reapportioned seating in the House of Representatives, restoration of the Executive Chamber to its original condition, completion of an accessible utility loop under the State House Green, and an addition to the State House to accommodate additional offices, food service, and meeting space.

The Pavilion project provided convenient and economical space for expanding state government within the limits of the Complex. It also preserved the physical definition of the Green and the historic “gateway” leading from downtown Montpelier into the Capitol Complex. Public debate over saving the Pavilion was a landmark in Vermont's historic preservation movement.

The State House Addition was thoughtfully designed by The Burley Partnership to take advantage of the rock ledges behind the State House and to create fresh, contemporary space that would have minimal impact on the familiar, historic views from along State Street. Adding new-to-old is a sensitive and often difficult challenge; this addition enjoyed immediate approval from both the Legislature and the Public.

Links to more information: