In the gallery air-conditioning project, virtually all of the museum's twenty galleries were to be air conditioned with only minimal disruption to their continued use, finishes and detailing. Akeley Hall posed a particular challenge which required scaffolding over both the Hall's mezzanine level and the priceless elephant display allowing workers to cut holes in the existing 36" deep girders while the Hall remained opened. Upon completetion of the gallery projects, the treasured galleries offered patrons their historic character in modern comfort.