Revitalizing Art: Asheville Museum's Stunning Expansion

Established in 1948, the Asheville Art Museum is the third oldest art museum in North Carolina, proudly situated in the heart of downtown Asheville. The museum recognized the pressing need for expansion to foster a flourishing arts culture, which led to an ambitious renovation and expansion project. Rather than relocate for economic convenience, the museum committed to enhancing its existing location, resulting in a unique blend of new construction, renovation, and historic restoration, all while respecting the architectural integrity of the surrounding area.

To realize this vision, the museum initially collaborated with Ennead Architects, who developed a conceptual design that harmonizes modern architectural elements with the rich craft traditions inherent to Asheville. The design features a monumental volume that houses the permanent collection, encased in a transparent glass façade that symbolizes the museum's mission to shelter and celebrate significant works of art. This innovative approach not only showcases the museum's collection but also invites the community to engage with its artistic offerings.

The project was further refined by ARCA Design, which took on the role of Architect of Record. The team focused on enhancing visitor experience through improved way-finding, security, and operational efficiency. A standout feature of the design is the maximized transparency of the entry façade, achieved through clear structural glazing with a frit applied to the west elevation to mitigate glare. Additionally, ARCA Design introduced a distinctive back-lit metal panel known as the 'cradle,' which appears to support the zinc-clad gallery volume. This glowing element invites public interaction, even during museum closure hours, fostering a sense of community involvement.

Completed in the fall of 2019, the expansion significantly increased the museum's collection gallery space by 70%, effectively doubling the storage capacity. The project introduced a new entrance atrium designed for patron circulation and special events, alongside dedicated spaces for large-scale artwork display and a modern gift shop. The renovation also included an interactive area for children, additional office and curatorial spaces, and a new education wing crafted from the historic Pack Library, which now houses classrooms, an art studio, and a reference library. The addition of a rooftop pavilion and terrace offers breathtaking views of the Pisgah Mountain Range, enhancing the visitor experience.

The successful completion of the Asheville Art Museum's expansion and renovation has firmly established it as a cornerstone of Asheville's vibrant arts community. This project not only enhances the visitor experience and accessibility to the arts but also provides a dynamic platform for artists to exhibit their work and for the community to engage with the transformative power of art. Through ARCA Design's vision and execution, the museum has positioned itself as a beacon of creativity and cultural growth in North Carolina.

Read also about the NCCA project