Historic Kappa House Restoration Foundation

The Historic Kappa House Restoration Foundation was established to support the preservation, renovation, and public awareness of the historic Kappa House in Washington, D.C. Established in 1924, the Kappa House holds cultural and historical significance, and the foundation’s work has focused on restoring the property while helping the public better understand its importance.

Terry Brooks, Jr., AIA, served in key leadership roles with the foundation, including first vice president and later president. In these roles, he helped guide the restoration effort by applying his architectural background to evaluate the building’s physical needs, identify renovation priorities, estimate costs, and coordinate qualified contractors.

The restoration work included a wide range of building improvements. Major renovations included a new roof, three renovated bathrooms, improvements to the upper floors, and upgrades to floors, walls, ceilings, lighting fixtures, and electrical fixtures. Exterior improvements included a new front door, the installation of a portico or front porch, Roman columns flanking the entrance, and the addition of the fraternity’s coat of arms. These improvements helped strengthen the building’s appearance and make it more appropriate to its historic setting.

The foundation has raised funds internally and externally to support the restoration. Approximately eighty-five percent of the house has been renovated, with additional support from the District of Columbia government. One of the major remaining goals is the installation of an elevator, which would improve access throughout the four-story structure for members, visitors, and the general public.

This restoration effort reflects the foundation’s commitment to preserving an important historic property while improving its long-term functionality, accessibility, and public value.