Bird House

The revitalized Bird House at the Smithsonian’s National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute represents a landmark achievement in sustainable design and environmental stewardship. Following a six-year, $69 million renovation, this 1928 structure has been reimagined into an immersive, living exhibit that celebrates the migratory journeys of North American birds while advancing the Smithsonian’s global conservation mission.

Preserving History, Enhancing Habitat

Originally built nearly a century ago, the Bird House has long stood as a symbol of the Smithsonian’s dedication to wildlife education. Working with Quinn Evans, Mueller Associates provided comprehensive mechanical, electrical, and plumbing engineering services for the building’s transformation, modernizing its infrastructure while preserving its historic character in compliance with the U.S. Secretary of the Interior’s Standards for Rehabilitation.

More than 80% of the original masonry was retained, and sustainable materials and systems were introduced to minimize the project’s environmental impact, earning it LEED Gold certification. The design achieves an elegant balance between preservation and innovation, ensuring this heritage structure remains both functional and forward-looking.

Engineering for Conservation

Mueller’s MEP design created the conditions necessary for the Bird House’s unique ecosystem to thrive.

• Specialized HVAC systems replicate regional climates across three large aviaries, maintaining precise temperature and humidity conditions.

• Ten integrated water subsystems support misting, irrigation, and exhibit pools while conserving resources through carbon filtration and tempering.

• Full-spectrum LED lighting mimics natural daylight cycles, supporting the birds’ biological rhythms and health.

• Emergency power systems ensure continuous care and safety for live animals under any condition.

These systems work seamlessly to create an environment where wildlife, visitors, and conservation research coexist in harmony.

Sustainability in Motion

Spanning 30,405 square feet on a 4.5-acre plateau, the Bird House features three indoor aviaries and an outdoor Bird Plateau, which illustrate critical migratory habitats—from the Delaware Bay to the South American Coffee Farm. The exhibit’s environmental systems respond dynamically to each habitat’s needs, reinforcing the museum’s role as both a cultural and ecological educator.

Read more about Mueller’s work on the Bird House in Plumbing Engineer.