At the heart of the Pendleton House renovation project, dedicated to American Decorative art within the RISD Museums wing, is the imperative to overcome two key challenges. Firstly, the lack of flexibility in the existing layout, restricting visitors to a singular perspective of the artworks and enforcing a rigid circulation pattern. To remedy this, I introduced movable panels. These panels allow for multiple configurations of the space to accommodate diverse exhibitions and facilitate alternative paths of circulation. Moreover, these panels can be manipulated to open and close, ushering in the concept of a third space at the museum’s core. This central area, adaptable for various activities, becomes particularly relevant during after-hours when the museum is closed, offering a versatile venue for events and functions.

The second challenge addressed in the renovation was the limitation imposed by the museum’s replication of a 1800s American house. To overcome this constraint, I chose to simplify the materiality of the space, predominantly utilizing wood and concrete. This simplicity not only provides a neutral backdrop for the showcased artworks but also ensures a contemporary and cohesive aesthetic throughout the museum. Importantly, elements of the existing architecture were carefully retained to honor the historical context. This blend of old and new allows visitors to appreciate the evolution of the space, offering a layered experience that respects the museum’s roots while embracing modernity.