Five years of planning and design work was done before the isolators were installed. The preparation also included a look at fixes to the interior of the Capitol, from historic paint and decor to modern technological additions.

Inside the House Chamber, you'll see a new paint scheme that's consistent with colors intended for the room by architect Richard K.A. Kletting, the Capitol's original designer. On the ceiling of the Rotunda, the once-dim painting of sea gulls has been restored and is now bright and visible from the ground.

Along the Capitol's long corridors, walls have been removed to allow broad pathways of light to stream from windows on each side of the building. The windows previously had been blocked by offices added to accommodate legislators and other state workers.

Judith McConkie, the Capitol's curator, said she has noticed an extraordinary attention to detail during the $212 million reconstruction. She, too, is hopeful the public will take notice, appreciate and treasure the work.

"It goes on and on and on, every detail about this building," McConkie said.

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E-mail: nwarburton@desnews.com