olson kundig: whatcom museum in washington state
olson sundberg kundig allen architects (now olson kundig) is responsible for the design of the new ‘whatcom museum’. located in bellingham, washington state, the concept behind museum’s modern design is to bring as much activity as there is on the inside of the building, to the outside. the project is still in progress, but the focus of the new art and history institution will be a 36-foot-tall, 180-foot-long translucent wall, known as ‘the lightcatcher’, which will act as a backdrop to the building’s central courtyard. the installation of this wall is meant to encourage the public to participate and engage in activities surrounding the museum. a silver level, LEED registered building, the ‘whatcom museum’ will house a green roof above the lobby, include a rain water harvesting system, double-skin curtain wall glazing on the lightcatcher wall, and natural ventilation in public gathering spaces.

olson kundig: whatcom museum in washington state
the wall can also be used for video or image projections

olson kundig: whatcom museum in washington state
‘the lightcatcher’ illuminated at night

olson kundig: whatcom museum in washington state
the wall creates a backdrop for the museum’s central courtyard, a gathering place for the public

olson kundig: whatcom museum in washington state
a general view of how the wall will be incorporated into the museum’s new design

olson kundig: whatcom museum in washington state
progress being made on the museum’s focal point