Project Overview

The Board of Trustees has selected RMJM Hillier, one of the nation's leading architectural firms. Hillier Architecture, known for creating environments that help shape human experience, will design an expansion and renovation plan to address the Michener's current and future needs.

RMJM Hillier has completed projects in 41 states and 27 countries and has been honored with more than 250 national, state and local design awards. Yet the firm's local roots in Princeton, New Jersey (where they have been located for 40 years) ensure that they understand the importance of balancing regional pride with world-class achievements.

Phase I: A New Two-Level Wing ($ 6 million)

The first phase of the expansion and renovation program will create a new wing that will include a new 5,000 square foot gallery on the upper level that will be large enough to accommodate major touring national exhibits. This exhibition space will also have the flexibility to be subdivided into smaller galleries for both traveling exhibits and the permanent collection.

This level will also house an orientation area where videos can be shown and visitors can be better prepared to enjoy the total museum experience. The new gallery design will create more effective circulation among the galleries than is currently available, allowing visitors to walk through the entire museum without retracing their steps.

The lower level of the new wing will improve and expand the Museum's curatorial and administrative capabilities. Staff offices and a private study room will be created to meet the needs of professional staff and researchers. A state-of-the-art preparation and handling facility will also be established. Finally, new mechanical systems will be installed for the entire museum which will include planned environmental innovations that will reduce long-term operating costs.


Phase I (Green): A new Two-Level Wing ($6 Million)
Phase II (Yellow): Event Space Renovation and Expansion ($3 Million)
and Conversion of the Silverman Pavillion into an Education Complex ($1 Million)

Enlarged view of the floor plan.

Phase II: Conversion of the Ann and Herman Silverman Pavilion into an Education Complex ($ 1million) and Event Space Renovation and Expansion ($3 million)

Half of all Michener attendees, adults and children, visit the museum to participate in educational programs, which include art enrichment for pre-schoolers and elementary school students; art lessons and gallery tours for children; and gallery talks; "meet the artist" programs, and concerts for adults.

Renovations to the Silverman Pavilion, will allow for the creation of two multi-purpose classrooms and lecture space, an orientation area and a children's gallery.

The proposed education complex will provide opportunities for diverse audiences to develop a lifelong appreciation for and involvement in the arts.

The Event Space Renovation and Expansion will help accommodate growing community and regional demand for access to the Michener, while improving the museum's ability to sustain itself through earned income opportunities, the renovation will increase the functionality of the 4,000 square foot sculpture garden and patio area. The patio area will be covered by glass to provide expanded space for public programs such as lectures, summer concerts and other events. It will also be available for museum galas, jazz nights, demonstrations and exhibition openings. This exciting, newly created indoor public space will greatly change the profile and functionality of the Museum. It will become a premiere event resource for visitors.

PROJECT TEAM DIRECTORY

Architect
RMJM Hillier, Barbara A. Hillier, AIA, Principal
Bradley Walters, AIA, Senior Associate
Michael Levin, AIA, Associate Principal

Construction Manager
E. Allen Reeves, Inc.
Robert N. Reeves, Jr., President
Michael Bennett, VP of Estimating
Samuel Moore, Estimator
Kenneth Robertson, P.E. Executive VP of Operations
Michael Malloy, VP of Construction

MEP + Fire Protection Engineer
Altieri Sebor Wieber, J. Kenny Wieber, Jr. P.E.

Structural Engineer
Harrison-Hamnett, P. C. John Harrison, P.E.

Lighting Design
George Sexton Associates, George S. Sexton III, Principal

Site / Civil Engineer
Carroll Engineering Corporation, H. Joon Pak, P.E.


 

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