Restoration
Interior
Window Restoration
Flower Hill’s Window Restoration Project is preserving history from the inside out—and we’re seeking funding to launch the planning phase. This crucial step will let us survey each historic window, assess its condition, and plan for repairs, rehabilitation, or—if absolutely necessary—replacement. We’ve seen firsthand that artifacts near windows suffer more damage from sunlight, heat, and weather than those stored farther away. Aging windows also make it harder (and more expensive) to maintain stable climate conditions in the extremes of Central Texas. By improving our windows, we’ll cut energy use, reduce UV and heat inside the home, and protect our collection for generations to come.
Exterior
Foundation Restoration
The next major step in restoring the historic Smoot family home is stabilizing the floors and foundation. As we approach the 150th anniversary of the home’s construction, we are preparing for our most ambitious project yet. By winter 2025, we aim to begin construction in collaboration with a team of experts to secure the structure. Stabilizing the house is crucial not only for its integrity but also for its role in housing our extensive collection.
Historic Land Preservation
Flower Hill has engaged Lionheart Places—a women-owned, award-winning landscape architecture and planning firm—to reimagine our historic grounds. This planning effort will set the stage for phased improvements that make our gardens, landscapes, and newly renovated community space fully accessible, environmentally sustainable, and welcoming to all. We’re committed to enhancing accessibility and fostering community connections, all while preserving the historic features of the grounds and nurturing the native wildscape that makes Flower Hill unique.
Collections
Thanks to a generous donation from a local philanthropist, Flower Hill is thrilled to advance our efforts in cataloging, researching, and caring for our extensive collections. With over 60,000 items, we house centuries-old furniture, textiles, rare books, art, global trinkets, and treasures from Austin's early days. This project directly supports our mission to preserve and promote Austin's rich history, enhancing the museum’s readiness for full-time exhibitions and ensuring the long-term preservation of our historical materials.
Help bring these projects to life
If you feel inspired to help us accomplish these projects and restore Flower Hill for generations to come, please consider donating. Every program, partnership, and project brings us closer to our full vision:
A place where history, art, and community come together—year-round.
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From conservation work and construction to concerts and classrooms, the work is happening now. And with your support, we’re laying the foundation for a cultural landmark that will serve Austin for generations to come.