The Rotunda and Atria
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The Rotunda is the centerpiece of the Capitol. Consequently, much care was taken in its preservation and restoration. The ceiling has been completely repainted. The entire drum has been decoratively repainted to simulate stone, which was the style during the period of the Capitol’s original construction. The marble walls have been meticulously cleaned. Today the Rotunda and Atria stand spotless in their newly restored glory.
The interior dome is 165 feet at its highest point; in the center the 95-foot chain holds the luxurious chandelier. Newly conserved seagulls, originally painted by William Slater, fly west from the Great Salt Lake across the clear blue sky in the dome. The entire structure is held up by four piers, each supporting 10 million pounds.
The atrium skylight may be the largest glass skylight of any state Capitol in the Union. It has been adjusted structurally to resolve earthquake concerns and has been decoratively painted in its original soft pastel colors.
The Rotunda can be reserved for private functions. Click here for more information.