The first substantial renovation and expansion of this iconic 1930’s Art Deco museum is central to protection of the collections and enhancing engagement with the arts. This transformation is evidenced in a new addition and a transparent element that connects the activity within the museum to the community activity in Olmsted’s Volunteer Park. Long overdue, the goal is to ensure this historic landmark remains an important cultural resource for future generations.

In addition to essential system enhancements (HVAC, fire safety, and seismic upgrades), the project includes a pair of small building expansions, and a proposed new terrace overlooking the east lawn. A glass park lobby addition to the east facade improves circulation through the galleries and provides direct visual connections to the park. This three-story addition will include space for a new gallery, education space and relocated administrative offices. In addition to other improvements, work involves preserving the historic character of the building and restoring elements that have been compromised through years of incremental renovations.

The architectural design approach to the Bebb and Gould-designed Art Deco building parallels the curatorial goals, which seek to create relevance and meaning between the past and the present. Simultaneously, the design is focused on strengthening the relationship between the building and the park—from the outside in and the inside out.

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The renovation and expansion of the Asian Art Museum will be funded by a mixture of public and private funds. The project budget is approximately $54 million.

“The architectural design approach parallels the curatorial goals, which seek to create relevance and meaning between the past and the present. Simultaneously, the design is focused on strengthening the relationship between the building and the park—from the outside in and the inside out,” says Sam Miller, AIA, Partner at LMN Architects.
 
The museum is anticipated to reopen in the fall of 2019.