Construction of the Trustee’s Office began in 1839. James C. Thomas describes the building as "perhaps the most elegant in all Shakerdom" in his book Shaker Architecture in Kentucky:
Perhaps the most elegant building in all Shakerdom is the Trustees' House begun in 1839 at Pleasant Hill. This large building was constructed to house the Trustees, visiting Shakers, and the "world's" people. The restrained details of the exterior belie the elaboration of the interior. Brother Micajah Burnett designed twin spiral staircases that rise three floors and end in a dome. The balustrade was made of cherry and curves gracefully to its termination at the top floor. The staircases rise seemingly unsupported and both are framed with three-inch-thick white oak members. The trim is very similar to that found in the Centre Family House although Burnett introduced a light brown color for the woodwork. An arcade was built on the east side for summer use only as no provision for heating has been found. Attractive arched openings were equipped with louvered doors. Stone steps with a semi- circular iron railing to receive the louvered doors were installed at two of these openings.
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