Discovering: Woodmere

Thursday, June 11, 2026
In-Person | 5:00–7:00 PM

Join the Chestnut Hill Conservancy for Discovering: Woodmere — A Collaborative Program on Historic Preservation, Adaptive Reuse, and Community Vision.

This special collaborative program, presented in partnership with Woodmere, offers an in-depth look at the transformation of St. Michael’s Hall into the museum’s Frances M. Maguire Hall—an ambitious and nationally significant example of adaptive reuse, historic preservation, and community-centered design.

Through a focused conversation with Woodmere’s Executive Director William R. Valerio; Jeff Krieger, AIA, LEED AP, President, Krieger Jacob Architects; and the Conservancy’s Executive Director, David Gest, Esq. (who previously served as zoning attorney for the project), participants will gain insight into how this transformation took shape—from early visioning and neighborhood dialogue to the complex realities of implementation. The discussion will address key aspects of the project, including zoning and regulatory pathways, site and environmental constraints, accessibility and life-safety requirements, and the complex design decisions required to adapt a historic convent into a contemporary cultural space without compromising its historic character. 

A moderated Q&A will follow the presentation. After the Q&A, there will be time to continue the conversation with light refreshments until 7:00 PM.

Registration also includes complimentary admission to Woodmere for a self-guided visit either earlier in the day, before the program (prior to 5:00 PM on June 11), or the following day (June 12) during regular museum hours, 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

Advance registration is required.
Limited tickets available.

For registration questions, please contact
Chrissy Clawson
Director of Programs and Communications
chrissy@chconservancy.org

About the Discovering series

The Discovering series, one of the Conservancy’s signature public programs, spotlights the area’s rich architecture, history, and natural beauty through guided tours and lectures. Conservancy members enjoy discounted tickets and exclusive access to events, fostering deeper connections throughout Northwest Philadelphia and the Wissahickon watershed.

The Chestnut Hill Conservancy’s public programming is made possible through the generous support of our Lead Sponsor, Chubb, General Sponsors, Event Sponsors, and members. Our 2026 Discovering Event Sponsor is John B. Ward & Co. Arborists. Heritage Consulting Group and Laurel Hill Gardens are both proud 2026 Discovering Supporting Sponsors.

To learn more, visit https://chconservancy.org/programs/discovering-series/.