Museum_Contemporary_Art_Santa-Barbara_Hero@2x

Museum of Contemporary Art Santa Barbara

Design Challenge

How did the architects transform a traditional reception area into an engaging, interactive visitor experience?

Design Solution

AB design studio turned a traditional museum reception space into a flexible arts environment by redefining the typical gallery structure. The architects removed existing reception barriers, including the front desk, to blur the boundaries between entry and gallery. Upon arrival, guests are greeted by a white volume with an extending partition that features a salon-style integration of informational video kiosks and wall displays in lieu of traditional paper gallery guides. The open entryway encourages personal engagement with museum docents and staff, facilitating interactions that can continue through the space. The architects programmed a small high-functioning office for administrative tasks hidden away within the small volume. Without interrupting the flow of guests, the architects carefully designated a partitioned space within the gallery that acts as a hands-on learning center, arts lab, or conference room. The multi-purpose space provides activities and resources for making artwork, as well as for research and exploration, to help visitors attain an in-depth understanding of current exhibitions.

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Project Data

LOT SIZE
3,600 sf
CONSTRUCTION COST
$100,000
LOCATION
Santa Barbara, CA
PRINCIPAL
Josh Blumer, AIA
PROJECT MANAGER
Aramis Arciga
DESIGN TEAM
Clay Aurell, AIA | Drew Scherer | Robert Pester | Nils Hammerbeck
GENERAL CONTRACTOR
Nils Hammerbeck
INTERIOR DESIGNER
AB design studio, inc.
Electrical Engineer
JMPE
Equipment Supply
Jenson Audio
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