Jamerson-Lewis Construction has completed the renovation and expansion of the University of Virginia Center for Politics, creating a renewed space for teaching, public events, political history and civic engagement on Grounds.

Located at the historic Montesano home, the project adds more than 5,000 square feet and connects the new addition to the original 4,700-square-foot structure through a glass passage. Designed by MBB Architects, the completed expansion thoughtfully blends the character of the existing historic home with new, flexible spaces built for learning, gathering and conversation.

At the center of the expansion is the Mike and Nancy Miller Commons, a flexible event space designed to accommodate classes, lectures, guest speakers, public programs and gatherings of up to 400 people. The new space gives the Center for Politics the ability to host larger events in-house while continuing to grow its role as a place for civic education and public dialogue.

The completed Center also brings history and current events together in an engaging way. Campaign memorabilia and exhibits highlight defining moments in American politics, while video walls, live news tickers, seminar rooms, a library and gathering spaces give students and visitors new opportunities to learn, connect and participate.

The impact of this project reaches far beyond the added square footage. The expanded Center gives students a place to connect classroom learning with real-world politics and provides the University and surrounding community with a meaningful setting for public programs, thoughtful dialogue and civic engagement.

For Jamerson-Lewis Construction, Building Better Lives in Our Communities means creating spaces where people can learn, connect and succeed. We are grateful to the University of Virginia, MBB Architects and every project partner whose collaboration helped bring this important space to life.

Photos by Alan Karchmer