Smithsonian institution's National Museum of Natural History Renovate Baird Auditorium

Closed Solicitation Posted

This opportunity was awarded. See the award notice from .

Solicitation number
33330225RT0010018
Agency
Responses due
Set-aside
No set-aside

Opportunity facts

Place of performance
Washington, District of Columbia 20560, United States

Notice details come from SAM.gov. Updated .

About this opportunity

The Smithsonian Institution is seeking a construction contractor to comprehensively renovate the historic Baird Auditorium at the National Museum of Natural History in Washington, DC. The project involves a full restoration of the 536-seat auditorium, including upgrading mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems, modernizing audio-visual equipment, restoring Guastavino tile ceilings, improving accessibility, and rehabilitating adjacent spaces. The solicitation requires a contractor capable of preserving the auditorium's historical architectural elements while implementing modern infrastructure and technology upgrades, with a sustainable goal of achieving LEED Gold certification. The Smithsonian will use a best-value trade-off source selection process, evaluating technical factors such as plan of accomplishment, key personnel, past performance, and cost reasonableness. Key dates include a site visit on April 9, 2025, questions and clarifications due by April 25, 2025, and proposals due on May 23, 2025, at 3:00 PM EST.

The contract has no specific set-aside designation, though it includes subcontracting goals of 40% with small businesses and 7% with service-disabled veteran-owned small businesses. The total construction budget exceeds $10 million, with a performance period of 730 calendar days from the Notice to Proceed. The project will be executed at 10th Street & Constitution Ave NW, Washington, DC 20560, and will utilize Davis-Bacon Wage Determination DC20250002 for labor compensation. Throughout construction, the auditorium and ambulatory spaces will be closed to the public, though the ambulatory corridor must remain functional as an emergency exit route. The contract will be awarded as a Firm Fixed Price construction contract, focusing on comprehensive restoration that balances historical preservation with modern technological and accessibility requirements.

Notice text

8 versions

Update #8 · Latest ·

Amendment 0007 to the RFP is hereby issued and attached for download. The purpose of the amendment is to make the following changes to the Solicitation:

Responses to RFIs

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Amendment 0006 to the RFP is hereby issued and attached for download. The purpose of the amendment is to make the following changes to the Solicitation:

Responses to RFIs

Addendum No. 2

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Amendment 0005 to the RFP is hereby issued and attached for download. The purpose of the amendment is to make the following changes to the Solicitation:

Responses to RFIs

Addendum No. 1

Bid Due Date Extension

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Amendment 0004 to the RFP is hereby issued and attached for download. The purpose of the amendment is to make the following change to the Solicitation:

RFI Submission Due Date Extended

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Amendment 0003 to the RFP is hereby issued and attached for download. The purpose of the amendment is to make the following changes to the Solicitation:

Responses to RFIs

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Amendment 0002 to the RFP is hereby issued and attached for download. The purpose of the amendment is to make the following change to the Solicitation:

2nd Site Visit

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Amendment 0001 to the RFP is hereby issued and attached for download. The purpose of the amendment is to make the following change to the Solicitation:

Site Visit: Maximum Attendance Limit

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

The Baird Auditorium contains a unique historical architecture that includes a round plan, a Guastavino tile domed ceiling, and a bowl-shaped floor slab, all contributing to excellent unamplified acoustics and sightlines from every seat to the stage. However, as theater technologies have advanced in picture projection, amplified acoustics, and accessibility standards, Baird has fallen behind the times. The minor and sporadic renovations have resulted in solutions that lack architectural compatibility with the museum's historic character.

The Smithsonian Institution is seeking offers for the Renovate Baird Auditorium project located at 10th Street & Constitution Ave NW, Washington, DC 20560, as described herein and in the Construction Documents.

All requirements the successful Offeror must meet concerning this project are outlined in detail in the Solicitation Documents included with this Request for Proposal. Upon receipt of Technical and Cost Proposals and selecting a successful Offeror, the Smithsonian Institution will execute a Firm Fixed Price construction contract.

STATEMENT OF WORK

The successful offeror shall provide all materials, equipment, labor, and supervision necessary to complete the following work at the Smithsonian Institution, National Museum of Natural History, Baird Auditorium.

The work includes but is not limited to, all work specified in the Contract Documents and consists of drawings and specifications beginning with Division 1 – GENERAL REQUIREMENTS and ending with Division 28 – Electronic Safety and Security (with some sections omitted).

The scope of work comprises a complete restoration of the auditorium, an upgrade to the adjacent ambulatory spaces to meet modern code requirements and new programmatic needs, and incidental repair and cleaning of the exterior wall in the carriage area. The work includes the mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) upgrades, sprinkler system installation, the audio-visual system modernization, restoration of the Baird and ambulatory Guastavino ceiling, and museum historical preservation. The sustainable goal for this project is to achieve LEED Gold certification. Specifically, work under this project includes but is not limited to:

• Upgrade Modern infrastructure

• Modify building systems to comply with current codes

• Modify the auditorium for accessibility

• Repair Baird structure

• Replace the auditorium floor slab, stage floor, and mud slab below the auditorium and stage

• Upgrade all mechanical, plumbing, electrical and fire protection and life safety systems

• Install fire sprinkler system above the auditorium

• Remove non-historic and incompatible features

• Update theater audio/visual equipment

• Update the theater lighting system

• Refurbish and reconfigure existing theater seating

• Improve auditorium acoustic

• Install decorative metal railings

• Update electronic security and telecommunications

• Repair, restore, and clean the historic Guastavino tile ceiling in the auditorium and the adjacent ambulatory spaces

• Repair, restore, and clean terrazzo and marble flooring

• Rehabilitate the ancillary spaces adjacent to the auditorium to support modern greenroom accommodations, repair dressing room and accessible restrooms

• Install new display cases within the ambulatory spaces and allow for changing exhibits.

During construction, the auditorium and ambulatory spaces will be closed to the general public. However, the ambulatory corridor will serve as the museum's emergency exit route throughout the construction. Therefore, this emergency exit path must always be maintained during construction and constructed as required by the plans and specifications.

Construction Schedule: The total period of performance allowed for construction is 730 calendar days from the Notice to Proceed.

Construction Budget: Over $10M

The subcontracting goals for this project are: 40% with small business concerns. At least 7% with Service-Disabled Veteran-owned small businesses (SDV).

Davis Bacon Wage Determination DC20250002 dated 02/21/2025 shall apply.

Questions or Clarifications due date is April 25, 2025. 

THE PROPOSAL DUE DATE IS FRIDAY, MAY 23, 2025, AT 3:00 PM EASTERN STANDARD TIME.
 

Update #7 ·

Amendment 0006 to the RFP is hereby issued and attached for download. The purpose of the amendment is to make the following changes to the Solicitation:

Responses to RFIs

Addendum No. 2

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Amendment 0005 to the RFP is hereby issued and attached for download. The purpose of the amendment is to make the following changes to the Solicitation:

Responses to RFIs

Addendum No. 1

Bid Due Date Extension

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Amendment 0004 to the RFP is hereby issued and attached for download. The purpose of the amendment is to make the following change to the Solicitation:

RFI Submission Due Date Extended

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Amendment 0003 to the RFP is hereby issued and attached for download. The purpose of the amendment is to make the following changes to the Solicitation:

Responses to RFIs

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Amendment 0002 to the RFP is hereby issued and attached for download. The purpose of the amendment is to make the following change to the Solicitation:

2nd Site Visit

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Amendment 0001 to the RFP is hereby issued and attached for download. The purpose of the amendment is to make the following change to the Solicitation:

Site Visit: Maximum Attendance Limit

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

The Baird Auditorium contains a unique historical architecture that includes a round plan, a Guastavino tile domed ceiling, and a bowl-shaped floor slab, all contributing to excellent unamplified acoustics and sightlines from every seat to the stage. However, as theater technologies have advanced in picture projection, amplified acoustics, and accessibility standards, Baird has fallen behind the times. The minor and sporadic renovations have resulted in solutions that lack architectural compatibility with the museum's historic character.

The Smithsonian Institution is seeking offers for the Renovate Baird Auditorium project located at 10th Street & Constitution Ave NW, Washington, DC 20560, as described herein and in the Construction Documents.

All requirements the successful Offeror must meet concerning this project are outlined in detail in the Solicitation Documents included with this Request for Proposal. Upon receipt of Technical and Cost Proposals and selecting a successful Offeror, the Smithsonian Institution will execute a Firm Fixed Price construction contract.

STATEMENT OF WORK

The successful offeror shall provide all materials, equipment, labor, and supervision necessary to complete the following work at the Smithsonian Institution, National Museum of Natural History, Baird Auditorium.

The work includes but is not limited to, all work specified in the Contract Documents and consists of drawings and specifications beginning with Division 1 – GENERAL REQUIREMENTS and ending with Division 28 – Electronic Safety and Security (with some sections omitted).

The scope of work comprises a complete restoration of the auditorium, an upgrade to the adjacent ambulatory spaces to meet modern code requirements and new programmatic needs, and incidental repair and cleaning of the exterior wall in the carriage area. The work includes the mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) upgrades, sprinkler system installation, the audio-visual system modernization, restoration of the Baird and ambulatory Guastavino ceiling, and museum historical preservation. The sustainable goal for this project is to achieve LEED Gold certification. Specifically, work under this project includes but is not limited to:

• Upgrade Modern infrastructure

• Modify building systems to comply with current codes

• Modify the auditorium for accessibility

• Repair Baird structure

• Replace the auditorium floor slab, stage floor, and mud slab below the auditorium and stage

• Upgrade all mechanical, plumbing, electrical and fire protection and life safety systems

• Install fire sprinkler system above the auditorium

• Remove non-historic and incompatible features

• Update theater audio/visual equipment

• Update the theater lighting system

• Refurbish and reconfigure existing theater seating

• Improve auditorium acoustic

• Install decorative metal railings

• Update electronic security and telecommunications

• Repair, restore, and clean the historic Guastavino tile ceiling in the auditorium and the adjacent ambulatory spaces

• Repair, restore, and clean terrazzo and marble flooring

• Rehabilitate the ancillary spaces adjacent to the auditorium to support modern greenroom accommodations, repair dressing room and accessible restrooms

• Install new display cases within the ambulatory spaces and allow for changing exhibits.

During construction, the auditorium and ambulatory spaces will be closed to the general public. However, the ambulatory corridor will serve as the museum's emergency exit route throughout the construction. Therefore, this emergency exit path must always be maintained during construction and constructed as required by the plans and specifications.

Construction Schedule: The total period of performance allowed for construction is 730 calendar days from the Notice to Proceed.

Construction Budget: Over $10M

The subcontracting goals for this project are: 40% with small business concerns. At least 7% with Service-Disabled Veteran-owned small businesses (SDV).

Davis Bacon Wage Determination DC20250002 dated 02/21/2025 shall apply.

Questions or Clarifications due date is April 25, 2025. 

THE PROPOSAL DUE DATE IS FRIDAY, MAY 23, 2025, AT 3:00 PM EASTERN STANDARD TIME.
 

Update #6 ·

Amendment 0005 to the RFP is hereby issued and attached for download. The purpose of the amendment is to make the following changes to the Solicitation:

Responses to RFIs

Addendum No. 1

Bid Due Date Extension

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Amendment 0004 to the RFP is hereby issued and attached for download. The purpose of the amendment is to make the following change to the Solicitation:

RFI Submission Due Date Extended

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Amendment 0003 to the RFP is hereby issued and attached for download. The purpose of the amendment is to make the following changes to the Solicitation:

Responses to RFIs

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Amendment 0002 to the RFP is hereby issued and attached for download. The purpose of the amendment is to make the following change to the Solicitation:

2nd Site Visit

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Amendment 0001 to the RFP is hereby issued and attached for download. The purpose of the amendment is to make the following change to the Solicitation:

Site Visit: Maximum Attendance Limit

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

The Baird Auditorium contains a unique historical architecture that includes a round plan, a Guastavino tile domed ceiling, and a bowl-shaped floor slab, all contributing to excellent unamplified acoustics and sightlines from every seat to the stage. However, as theater technologies have advanced in picture projection, amplified acoustics, and accessibility standards, Baird has fallen behind the times. The minor and sporadic renovations have resulted in solutions that lack architectural compatibility with the museum's historic character.

The Smithsonian Institution is seeking offers for the Renovate Baird Auditorium project located at 10th Street & Constitution Ave NW, Washington, DC 20560, as described herein and in the Construction Documents.

All requirements the successful Offeror must meet concerning this project are outlined in detail in the Solicitation Documents included with this Request for Proposal. Upon receipt of Technical and Cost Proposals and selecting a successful Offeror, the Smithsonian Institution will execute a Firm Fixed Price construction contract.

STATEMENT OF WORK

The successful offeror shall provide all materials, equipment, labor, and supervision necessary to complete the following work at the Smithsonian Institution, National Museum of Natural History, Baird Auditorium.

The work includes but is not limited to, all work specified in the Contract Documents and consists of drawings and specifications beginning with Division 1 – GENERAL REQUIREMENTS and ending with Division 28 – Electronic Safety and Security (with some sections omitted).

The scope of work comprises a complete restoration of the auditorium, an upgrade to the adjacent ambulatory spaces to meet modern code requirements and new programmatic needs, and incidental repair and cleaning of the exterior wall in the carriage area. The work includes the mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) upgrades, sprinkler system installation, the audio-visual system modernization, restoration of the Baird and ambulatory Guastavino ceiling, and museum historical preservation. The sustainable goal for this project is to achieve LEED Gold certification. Specifically, work under this project includes but is not limited to:

• Upgrade Modern infrastructure

• Modify building systems to comply with current codes

• Modify the auditorium for accessibility

• Repair Baird structure

• Replace the auditorium floor slab, stage floor, and mud slab below the auditorium and stage

• Upgrade all mechanical, plumbing, electrical and fire protection and life safety systems

• Install fire sprinkler system above the auditorium

• Remove non-historic and incompatible features

• Update theater audio/visual equipment

• Update the theater lighting system

• Refurbish and reconfigure existing theater seating

• Improve auditorium acoustic

• Install decorative metal railings

• Update electronic security and telecommunications

• Repair, restore, and clean the historic Guastavino tile ceiling in the auditorium and the adjacent ambulatory spaces

• Repair, restore, and clean terrazzo and marble flooring

• Rehabilitate the ancillary spaces adjacent to the auditorium to support modern greenroom accommodations, repair dressing room and accessible restrooms

• Install new display cases within the ambulatory spaces and allow for changing exhibits.

During construction, the auditorium and ambulatory spaces will be closed to the general public. However, the ambulatory corridor will serve as the museum's emergency exit route throughout the construction. Therefore, this emergency exit path must always be maintained during construction and constructed as required by the plans and specifications.

Construction Schedule: The total period of performance allowed for construction is 730 calendar days from the Notice to Proceed.

Construction Budget: Over $10M

The subcontracting goals for this project are: 40% with small business concerns. At least 7% with Service-Disabled Veteran-owned small businesses (SDV).

Davis Bacon Wage Determination DC20250002 dated 02/21/2025 shall apply.

Questions or Clarifications due date is April 25, 2025. 

THE PROPOSAL DUE DATE IS FRIDAY, MAY 23, 2025, AT 3:00 PM EASTERN STANDARD TIME.
 

Update #5 ·

Amendment 0004 to the RFP is hereby issued and attached for download. The purpose of the amendment is to make the following change to the Solicitation:

RFI Submission Due Date Extended

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Amendment 0003 to the RFP is hereby issued and attached for download. The purpose of the amendment is to make the following changes to the Solicitation:

Responses to RFIs

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Amendment 0002 to the RFP is hereby issued and attached for download. The purpose of the amendment is to make the following change to the Solicitation:

2nd Site Visit

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Amendment 0001 to the RFP is hereby issued and attached for download. The purpose of the amendment is to make the following change to the Solicitation:

Site Visit: Maximum Attendance Limit

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

The Baird Auditorium contains a unique historical architecture that includes a round plan, a Guastavino tile domed ceiling, and a bowl-shaped floor slab, all contributing to excellent unamplified acoustics and sightlines from every seat to the stage. However, as theater technologies have advanced in picture projection, amplified acoustics, and accessibility standards, Baird has fallen behind the times. The minor and sporadic renovations have resulted in solutions that lack architectural compatibility with the museum's historic character.

The Smithsonian Institution is seeking offers for the Renovate Baird Auditorium project located at 10th Street & Constitution Ave NW, Washington, DC 20560, as described herein and in the Construction Documents.

All requirements the successful Offeror must meet concerning this project are outlined in detail in the Solicitation Documents included with this Request for Proposal. Upon receipt of Technical and Cost Proposals and selecting a successful Offeror, the Smithsonian Institution will execute a Firm Fixed Price construction contract.

STATEMENT OF WORK

The successful offeror shall provide all materials, equipment, labor, and supervision necessary to complete the following work at the Smithsonian Institution, National Museum of Natural History, Baird Auditorium.

The work includes but is not limited to, all work specified in the Contract Documents and consists of drawings and specifications beginning with Division 1 – GENERAL REQUIREMENTS and ending with Division 28 – Electronic Safety and Security (with some sections omitted).

The scope of work comprises a complete restoration of the auditorium, an upgrade to the adjacent ambulatory spaces to meet modern code requirements and new programmatic needs, and incidental repair and cleaning of the exterior wall in the carriage area. The work includes the mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) upgrades, sprinkler system installation, the audio-visual system modernization, restoration of the Baird and ambulatory Guastavino ceiling, and museum historical preservation. The sustainable goal for this project is to achieve LEED Gold certification. Specifically, work under this project includes but is not limited to:

• Upgrade Modern infrastructure

• Modify building systems to comply with current codes

• Modify the auditorium for accessibility

• Repair Baird structure

• Replace the auditorium floor slab, stage floor, and mud slab below the auditorium and stage

• Upgrade all mechanical, plumbing, electrical and fire protection and life safety systems

• Install fire sprinkler system above the auditorium

• Remove non-historic and incompatible features

• Update theater audio/visual equipment

• Update the theater lighting system

• Refurbish and reconfigure existing theater seating

• Improve auditorium acoustic

• Install decorative metal railings

• Update electronic security and telecommunications

• Repair, restore, and clean the historic Guastavino tile ceiling in the auditorium and the adjacent ambulatory spaces

• Repair, restore, and clean terrazzo and marble flooring

• Rehabilitate the ancillary spaces adjacent to the auditorium to support modern greenroom accommodations, repair dressing room and accessible restrooms

• Install new display cases within the ambulatory spaces and allow for changing exhibits.

During construction, the auditorium and ambulatory spaces will be closed to the general public. However, the ambulatory corridor will serve as the museum's emergency exit route throughout the construction. Therefore, this emergency exit path must always be maintained during construction and constructed as required by the plans and specifications.

Construction Schedule: The total period of performance allowed for construction is 730 calendar days from the Notice to Proceed.

Construction Budget: Over $10M

The subcontracting goals for this project are: 40% with small business concerns. At least 7% with Service-Disabled Veteran-owned small businesses (SDV).

Davis Bacon Wage Determination DC20250002 dated 02/21/2025 shall apply.

Questions or Clarifications due date is April 25, 2025. 

THE PROPOSAL DUE DATE IS FRIDAY, MAY 23, 2025, AT 3:00 PM EASTERN STANDARD TIME.
 

Update #4 ·

Amendment 0003 to the RFP is hereby issued and attached for download. The purpose of the amendment is to make the following changes to the Solicitation:

Responses to RFIs

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Amendment 0002 to the RFP is hereby issued and attached for download. The purpose of the amendment is to make the following change to the Solicitation:

2nd Site Visit

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Amendment 0001 to the RFP is hereby issued and attached for download. The purpose of the amendment is to make the following change to the Solicitation:

Site Visit: Maximum Attendance Limit

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

The Baird Auditorium contains a unique historical architecture that includes a round plan, a Guastavino tile domed ceiling, and a bowl-shaped floor slab, all contributing to excellent unamplified acoustics and sightlines from every seat to the stage. However, as theater technologies have advanced in picture projection, amplified acoustics, and accessibility standards, Baird has fallen behind the times. The minor and sporadic renovations have resulted in solutions that lack architectural compatibility with the museum's historic character.

The Smithsonian Institution is seeking offers for the Renovate Baird Auditorium project located at 10th Street & Constitution Ave NW, Washington, DC 20560, as described herein and in the Construction Documents.

All requirements the successful Offeror must meet concerning this project are outlined in detail in the Solicitation Documents included with this Request for Proposal. Upon receipt of Technical and Cost Proposals and selecting a successful Offeror, the Smithsonian Institution will execute a Firm Fixed Price construction contract.

STATEMENT OF WORK

The successful offeror shall provide all materials, equipment, labor, and supervision necessary to complete the following work at the Smithsonian Institution, National Museum of Natural History, Baird Auditorium.

The work includes but is not limited to, all work specified in the Contract Documents and consists of drawings and specifications beginning with Division 1 – GENERAL REQUIREMENTS and ending with Division 28 – Electronic Safety and Security (with some sections omitted).

The scope of work comprises a complete restoration of the auditorium, an upgrade to the adjacent ambulatory spaces to meet modern code requirements and new programmatic needs, and incidental repair and cleaning of the exterior wall in the carriage area. The work includes the mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) upgrades, sprinkler system installation, the audio-visual system modernization, restoration of the Baird and ambulatory Guastavino ceiling, and museum historical preservation. The sustainable goal for this project is to achieve LEED Gold certification. Specifically, work under this project includes but is not limited to:

• Upgrade Modern infrastructure

• Modify building systems to comply with current codes

• Modify the auditorium for accessibility

• Repair Baird structure

• Replace the auditorium floor slab, stage floor, and mud slab below the auditorium and stage

• Upgrade all mechanical, plumbing, electrical and fire protection and life safety systems

• Install fire sprinkler system above the auditorium

• Remove non-historic and incompatible features

• Update theater audio/visual equipment

• Update the theater lighting system

• Refurbish and reconfigure existing theater seating

• Improve auditorium acoustic

• Install decorative metal railings

• Update electronic security and telecommunications

• Repair, restore, and clean the historic Guastavino tile ceiling in the auditorium and the adjacent ambulatory spaces

• Repair, restore, and clean terrazzo and marble flooring

• Rehabilitate the ancillary spaces adjacent to the auditorium to support modern greenroom accommodations, repair dressing room and accessible restrooms

• Install new display cases within the ambulatory spaces and allow for changing exhibits.

During construction, the auditorium and ambulatory spaces will be closed to the general public. However, the ambulatory corridor will serve as the museum's emergency exit route throughout the construction. Therefore, this emergency exit path must always be maintained during construction and constructed as required by the plans and specifications.

Construction Schedule: The total period of performance allowed for construction is 730 calendar days from the Notice to Proceed.

Construction Budget: Over $10M

The subcontracting goals for this project are: 40% with small business concerns. At least 7% with Service-Disabled Veteran-owned small businesses (SDV).

Davis Bacon Wage Determination DC20250002 dated 02/21/2025 shall apply.

Questions or Clarifications due date is April 25, 2025. 

THE PROPOSAL DUE DATE IS FRIDAY, MAY 23, 2025, AT 3:00 PM EASTERN STANDARD TIME.
 

Update #3 ·

Amendment 0002 to the RFP is hereby issued and attached for download. The purpose of the amendment is to make the following change to the Solicitation:

2nd Site Visit

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Amendment 0001 to the RFP is hereby issued and attached for download. The purpose of the amendment is to make the following change to the Solicitation:

Site Visit: Maximum Attendance Limit

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

The Baird Auditorium contains a unique historical architecture that includes a round plan, a Guastavino tile domed ceiling, and a bowl-shaped floor slab, all contributing to excellent unamplified acoustics and sightlines from every seat to the stage. However, as theater technologies have advanced in picture projection, amplified acoustics, and accessibility standards, Baird has fallen behind the times. The minor and sporadic renovations have resulted in solutions that lack architectural compatibility with the museum's historic character.

The Smithsonian Institution is seeking offers for the Renovate Baird Auditorium project located at 10th Street & Constitution Ave NW, Washington, DC 20560, as described herein and in the Construction Documents.

All requirements the successful Offeror must meet concerning this project are outlined in detail in the Solicitation Documents included with this Request for Proposal. Upon receipt of Technical and Cost Proposals and selecting a successful Offeror, the Smithsonian Institution will execute a Firm Fixed Price construction contract.

STATEMENT OF WORK

The successful offeror shall provide all materials, equipment, labor, and supervision necessary to complete the following work at the Smithsonian Institution, National Museum of Natural History, Baird Auditorium.

The work includes but is not limited to, all work specified in the Contract Documents and consists of drawings and specifications beginning with Division 1 – GENERAL REQUIREMENTS and ending with Division 28 – Electronic Safety and Security (with some sections omitted).

The scope of work comprises a complete restoration of the auditorium, an upgrade to the adjacent ambulatory spaces to meet modern code requirements and new programmatic needs, and incidental repair and cleaning of the exterior wall in the carriage area. The work includes the mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) upgrades, sprinkler system installation, the audio-visual system modernization, restoration of the Baird and ambulatory Guastavino ceiling, and museum historical preservation. The sustainable goal for this project is to achieve LEED Gold certification. Specifically, work under this project includes but is not limited to:

• Upgrade Modern infrastructure

• Modify building systems to comply with current codes

• Modify the auditorium for accessibility

• Repair Baird structure

• Replace the auditorium floor slab, stage floor, and mud slab below the auditorium and stage

• Upgrade all mechanical, plumbing, electrical and fire protection and life safety systems

• Install fire sprinkler system above the auditorium

• Remove non-historic and incompatible features

• Update theater audio/visual equipment

• Update the theater lighting system

• Refurbish and reconfigure existing theater seating

• Improve auditorium acoustic

• Install decorative metal railings

• Update electronic security and telecommunications

• Repair, restore, and clean the historic Guastavino tile ceiling in the auditorium and the adjacent ambulatory spaces

• Repair, restore, and clean terrazzo and marble flooring

• Rehabilitate the ancillary spaces adjacent to the auditorium to support modern greenroom accommodations, repair dressing room and accessible restrooms

• Install new display cases within the ambulatory spaces and allow for changing exhibits.

During construction, the auditorium and ambulatory spaces will be closed to the general public. However, the ambulatory corridor will serve as the museum's emergency exit route throughout the construction. Therefore, this emergency exit path must always be maintained during construction and constructed as required by the plans and specifications.

Construction Schedule: The total period of performance allowed for construction is 730 calendar days from the Notice to Proceed.

Construction Budget: Over $10M

The subcontracting goals for this project are: 40% with small business concerns. At least 7% with Service-Disabled Veteran-owned small businesses (SDV).

Davis Bacon Wage Determination DC20250002 dated 02/21/2025 shall apply.

Questions or Clarifications due date is April 25, 2025. 

THE PROPOSAL DUE DATE IS FRIDAY, MAY 23, 2025, AT 3:00 PM EASTERN STANDARD TIME.
 

Update #2 ·

Amendment 0001 to the RFP is hereby issued and attached for download. The purpose of the amendment is to make the following change to the Solicitation:

Site Visit: Maximum Attendance Limit

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

The Baird Auditorium contains a unique historical architecture that includes a round plan, a Guastavino tile domed ceiling, and a bowl-shaped floor slab, all contributing to excellent unamplified acoustics and sightlines from every seat to the stage. However, as theater technologies have advanced in picture projection, amplified acoustics, and accessibility standards, Baird has fallen behind the times. The minor and sporadic renovations have resulted in solutions that lack architectural compatibility with the museum's historic character.

The Smithsonian Institution is seeking offers for the Renovate Baird Auditorium project located at 10th Street & Constitution Ave NW, Washington, DC 20560, as described herein and in the Construction Documents.

All requirements the successful Offeror must meet concerning this project are outlined in detail in the Solicitation Documents included with this Request for Proposal. Upon receipt of Technical and Cost Proposals and selecting a successful Offeror, the Smithsonian Institution will execute a Firm Fixed Price construction contract.

STATEMENT OF WORK

The successful offeror shall provide all materials, equipment, labor, and supervision necessary to complete the following work at the Smithsonian Institution, National Museum of Natural History, Baird Auditorium.

The work includes but is not limited to, all work specified in the Contract Documents and consists of drawings and specifications beginning with Division 1 – GENERAL REQUIREMENTS and ending with Division 28 – Electronic Safety and Security (with some sections omitted).

The scope of work comprises a complete restoration of the auditorium, an upgrade to the adjacent ambulatory spaces to meet modern code requirements and new programmatic needs, and incidental repair and cleaning of the exterior wall in the carriage area. The work includes the mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) upgrades, sprinkler system installation, the audio-visual system modernization, restoration of the Baird and ambulatory Guastavino ceiling, and museum historical preservation. The sustainable goal for this project is to achieve LEED Gold certification. Specifically, work under this project includes but is not limited to:

• Upgrade Modern infrastructure

• Modify building systems to comply with current codes

• Modify the auditorium for accessibility

• Repair Baird structure

• Replace the auditorium floor slab, stage floor, and mud slab below the auditorium and stage

• Upgrade all mechanical, plumbing, electrical and fire protection and life safety systems

• Install fire sprinkler system above the auditorium

• Remove non-historic and incompatible features

• Update theater audio/visual equipment

• Update the theater lighting system

• Refurbish and reconfigure existing theater seating

• Improve auditorium acoustic

• Install decorative metal railings

• Update electronic security and telecommunications

• Repair, restore, and clean the historic Guastavino tile ceiling in the auditorium and the adjacent ambulatory spaces

• Repair, restore, and clean terrazzo and marble flooring

• Rehabilitate the ancillary spaces adjacent to the auditorium to support modern greenroom accommodations, repair dressing room and accessible restrooms

• Install new display cases within the ambulatory spaces and allow for changing exhibits.

During construction, the auditorium and ambulatory spaces will be closed to the general public. However, the ambulatory corridor will serve as the museum's emergency exit route throughout the construction. Therefore, this emergency exit path must always be maintained during construction and constructed as required by the plans and specifications.

Construction Schedule: The total period of performance allowed for construction is 730 calendar days from the Notice to Proceed.

Construction Budget: Over $10M

The subcontracting goals for this project are: 40% with small business concerns. At least 7% with Service-Disabled Veteran-owned small businesses (SDV).

Davis Bacon Wage Determination DC20250002 dated 02/21/2025 shall apply.

Questions or Clarifications due date is April 25, 2025. 

THE PROPOSAL DUE DATE IS FRIDAY, MAY 23, 2025, AT 3:00 PM EASTERN STANDARD TIME.
 

Update #1 ·

The Baird Auditorium contains a unique historical architecture that includes a round plan, a Guastavino tile domed ceiling, and a bowl-shaped floor slab, all contributing to excellent unamplified acoustics and sightlines from every seat to the stage. However, as theater technologies have advanced in picture projection, amplified acoustics, and accessibility standards, Baird has fallen behind the times. The minor and sporadic renovations have resulted in solutions that lack architectural compatibility with the museum's historic character.

The Smithsonian Institution is seeking offers for the Renovate Baird Auditorium project located at 10th Street & Constitution Ave NW, Washington, DC 20560, as described herein and in the Construction Documents.

All requirements the successful Offeror must meet concerning this project are outlined in detail in the Solicitation Documents included with this Request for Proposal. Upon receipt of Technical and Cost Proposals and selecting a successful Offeror, the Smithsonian Institution will execute a Firm Fixed Price construction contract.

STATEMENT OF WORK

The successful offeror shall provide all materials, equipment, labor, and supervision necessary to complete the following work at the Smithsonian Institution, National Museum of Natural History, Baird Auditorium.

The work includes but is not limited to, all work specified in the Contract Documents and consists of drawings and specifications beginning with Division 1 – GENERAL REQUIREMENTS and ending with Division 28 – Electronic Safety and Security (with some sections omitted).

The scope of work comprises a complete restoration of the auditorium, an upgrade to the adjacent ambulatory spaces to meet modern code requirements and new programmatic needs, and incidental repair and cleaning of the exterior wall in the carriage area. The work includes the mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) upgrades, sprinkler system installation, the audio-visual system modernization, restoration of the Baird and ambulatory Guastavino ceiling, and museum historical preservation. The sustainable goal for this project is to achieve LEED Gold certification. Specifically, work under this project includes but is not limited to:

• Upgrade Modern infrastructure

• Modify building systems to comply with current codes

• Modify the auditorium for accessibility

• Repair Baird structure

• Replace the auditorium floor slab, stage floor, and mud slab below the auditorium and stage

• Upgrade all mechanical, plumbing, electrical and fire protection and life safety systems

• Install fire sprinkler system above the auditorium

• Remove non-historic and incompatible features

• Update theater audio/visual equipment

• Update the theater lighting system

• Refurbish and reconfigure existing theater seating

• Improve auditorium acoustic

• Install decorative metal railings

• Update electronic security and telecommunications

• Repair, restore, and clean the historic Guastavino tile ceiling in the auditorium and the adjacent ambulatory spaces

• Repair, restore, and clean terrazzo and marble flooring

• Rehabilitate the ancillary spaces adjacent to the auditorium to support modern greenroom accommodations, repair dressing room and accessible restrooms

• Install new display cases within the ambulatory spaces and allow for changing exhibits.

During construction, the auditorium and ambulatory spaces will be closed to the general public. However, the ambulatory corridor will serve as the museum's emergency exit route throughout the construction. Therefore, this emergency exit path must always be maintained during construction and constructed as required by the plans and specifications.

Construction Schedule: The total period of performance allowed for construction is 730 calendar days from the Notice to Proceed.

Construction Budget: Over $10M

The subcontracting goals for this project are: 40% with small business concerns. At least 7% with Service-Disabled Veteran-owned small businesses (SDV).

Davis Bacon Wage Determination DC20250002 dated 02/21/2025 shall apply.

Questions or Clarifications due date is April 25, 2025. 

THE PROPOSAL DUE DATE IS FRIDAY, MAY 23, 2025, AT 3:00 PM EASTERN STANDARD TIME.
 

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Notice history

Notice Type Posted
Smithsonian institution's National Museum of Natural History Renovate Baird Auditorium Award Award Notice
This notice Latest solicitation Solicitation
Smithsonian institution's National Museum of Natural History Renovate Baird Auditorium Original Pre-Solicitation

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Opportunity Agency Set-aside Responses due
PRESOLICITATION Small Business Construction IDIQ Washington, DC Metropolitan Region Washington, District of Columbia, United States · NAICS 236220 Smithsonian Institution Total Small Business

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