Prior to creating Building Knowledge, Andrea Mones established and served as Historic Preservation and Fine Arts Officer for the Public Buildings Service, U.S. General Services Administration, in Washington, D.C. In her capacity as Details Subcommittee Chair for the Cosmos Club, she created a condition assessment and budget for the restoration of the 2000 s.f. Warne Lounge (Townsend Mansion ballroom). The Warne Lounge is the mansion’s grand second floor space designed in the rococo style, with an elaborate ceiling mural, ornamental plaster, gilding, and parquet flooring.

Six phases were identified for completion of the renovation and restoration of the space. A new copper roof is phase one. Replacement of the mechanical systems above the space, dating to the 1960s, is phase two. Upgrading of the electrical system is phase three. Restoration of the interior ornamental finishes is phase four. Conservation of the oil-on-canvas ceiling mural is phase five. And replacement of furnishings is phase six. The cost estimate is $2,000,000 to accomplish the six phases. The 2004 study is before the Cosmos Club’s Board of Management for funding.