Hillier's Skarmeas making his own history.

Hillier Architecture's Historic Preservation Managing Principal Dr. George C. Skarmeas, AIA, AICP has been elected to the board of the U.S. division of the International Council on Monuments and Sites (U.S./ ICOMOS).

The non-governmental organization is dedicated to the conservation of the world's historic monuments and sites.

"In a little less than a decade, George has built a nationally known historic preservation practice dedicated to restoring some of our nation's most valuable treasures," says Hillier Architecture Chairman J. Robert Hillier.

The firm's preservation portfolio includes the Virginia State Capitol, designed by Thomas Jefferson, the Lincoln Cottage--former summer home to the nation's 16th president and the United States Supreme Court. Historic preservation is among the building industry's consistently strong segments.

Most architects live for the commission that will allow them to put their signature on a new building. Not so George Skarmeas, who thrives on returning to glory historic buildings so that visitors can marvel at the vision of the original architect.

At the Virginia State Capitol, Hillier is leading the renovation of the 90,000 s/f Virginia Capitol and grounds, including the addition of a 25,000 s/f underground visitor center. Designed by Thomas Jefferson in 1785, the national historic landmark was one of the country's first state capitols.

In April, Hillier completed the exterior restoration of President Lincoln and Soldiers' Home National Monument--commonly referred to as Lincoln Cottage--the most significant historic site linked with the Lincoln presidency other than the White House.

He is also leading the renovation of the Supreme Court and recently commenced master planning work on Cincinnati's 70-year old Art Deco Cincinnati Museum Center.