Join Us for a Special Historic Preservation Event: Commonwealth Contractors Presents the Monticello Inn & Cottage Restoration
On December 4th, 2025, from 6:00 to 7:00 PM, the Albemarle Charlottesville Historical Society will host a special lecture on Monticello Inn & Cottage as part of their ongoing Historic Preservation Lecture Series.
Commonwealth Contractors is proud to announce that our president, Luke Roark, will be presenting on the recent restoration of the Monticello Inn & Cottage, formerly the historic Slate Hill Baptist Church. This event is a unique opportunity for the community to learn about the challenges and triumphs of preserving one of Southern Albemarle’s most significant historic structures.
Monticello Inn & Cottage: From Sacred Space to Historic Inn
This lecture is designed for anyone interested in historic architecture, rural heritage, and the process of bringing historic buildings back to life. Luke Roark will share firsthand insights into the restoration journey, from initial research and planning to the hands-on work that returned the former Slate Hill Baptist Church to its new role as Monticello Inn & Cottage. Attendees will gain a deeper appreciation for the complexities of historic rehabilitation and the importance of preserving our region’s unique character.
Event Details
- Date: December 4th, 2025
- Time: 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM
- Location: 401 McIntire Road Charlottesville, VA 22902
- Host: Albemarle Charlottesville Historical Society
- Presenter: Luke Roark, President of Commonwealth Contractors
- Tickets are Free: Book Here
This event is free, open to the public and is a must-attend for anyone passionate about history, architecture, or sustainable development in Virginia.
The Restoration of Monticello Inn & Cottage: A Closer Look
Preserving a Landmark: The Story of Slate Hill Baptist Church
Originally built in the 1830s as a neighborhood meeting house, the former Slate Hill Baptist Church has long been a fixture in Southern Albemarle. In 1868, it was deeded for use as both a church and a cemetery, and it is now recognized as part of the Southern Albemarle Rural Historic District by the National Park Service. The restoration project, led by Commonwealth Contractors, was coordinated with the Virginia Department of Historic Resources (DHR) to ensure the building’s historic integrity was maintained throughout the process.
Challenges and Discoveries During Renovation
Restoring a building with nearly two centuries of history comes with unique challenges and unexpected discoveries. The project required a full gut renovation to address structural issues and bring the building up to modern standards while preserving its historic character. Some of the most notable findings and solutions included:
- Uncovering original beadboard paneling that covered the entire wall from floor to ceiling.
- Discovering two layers of finished hardwood flooring, with the original 1830s floor hidden beneath a later addition.
- Identifying that the rounded pulpit was a later modification, and restoring the original lectern stand to its rightful place in the sanctuary.
- Stabilizing the foundation with new piers after finding insufficient support from the 1950s cinder block foundation.
- Retaining as much of the original floor joist structure as possible, replacing only sections damaged by termites and dry rot.
Each step of the renovation was guided by a commitment to authenticity and respect for the building’s history.
Blending Modern Comfort with Historic Integrity
One of the project’s key goals was to make the building functional for modern use without compromising its historic features. This required creative solutions, such as:
- Insulating outside the roof decking to keep the historic wood visible in the sanctuary.
- Installing a central duct above the roof rafters for heating and cooling, preserving the shallow crawl space below.
- Working closely with Yellow Room Architects and historic consultant Saddler Whitehead to ensure all updates met DHR standards and maintained the building’s character.
These efforts resulted in a space that honors the past while providing comfort and utility for today’s guests.
Sustainable Land Management: A Vision for the Future
The restoration of Monticello Inn & Cottage goes beyond the building itself. The project incorporates sustainable land management practices across the property, including:
- Rainwater harvesting systems to reduce water use and manage runoff.
- Native plant landscaping to support local ecosystems and minimize maintenance.
- Swales and berms for natural water management and erosion control.
- Plans for solar panels (not on the historic building) and a future rain retention pond to further enhance sustainability.
This holistic approach ensures the property remains a valuable asset for future generations, both as a historic site and as a model for sustainable rural development.
Why Attend? Discover the Value of Historic Preservation
Learn from Local Experts
Attending this event is a unique opportunity to hear directly from the team responsible for one of the region’s most ambitious preservation projects. Luke Roark will share lessons learned, best practices, and the personal motivations behind the project, including the desire to leave a meaningful legacy for the next generation.
See Preservation in Action
Whether you are a homeowner, developer, history enthusiast, or simply curious about the process of restoring historic buildings, this lecture will provide valuable insights and inspiration. You’ll gain a deeper understanding of the financial, technical, and creative aspects of historic rehabilitation, as well as the broader impact these projects have on our communities.
Join Us for an Inspiring Evening
Don’t miss this chance to explore the restoration of Monticello Inn & Cottage and learn how historic preservation can protect our rural heritage while meeting modern needs. Commonwealth Contractors is proud to sponsor and present this event, and we look forward to sharing our passion for preservation with you.
Get tickets and mark your calendar for December 4th, 2025, from 6:00 to 7:00 PM at 401 McIntire Road, Charlottesville. We hope to see you there!
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