weiss/manfredi restores hurricane-damaged museum in florida with curved stone exterior

new york-based weiss/manfredi has completed the renovation and extension of baker museum in florida. the project includes the expansion of the existing building to provide new cultural spaces as well as the repair of the existing façade, which was significantly damaged by hurricane irma in 2017.

images courtesy of weiss/manfredi 

baker museum forms part of artis—naples, a cultural institution in florida that also encompasses the naples philarmonic. the museum was forced to close in september 2017 after sustaining water damage during the category three hurricane. weiss/manfredi was tasked with restoring the damaged museum and launching artis—naples into the future.

the renovation works include a new sweeping elevational treatment clad in stone and metal with a durable water-resistant barrier to protect the building against future storms and flooding. the exterior also incorporates a sculptural staircase on the long elevation that leads to a new second floor event space. this flexible space hosts performances, lectures, and exhibitions.

the museum makeover also includes the extension of the existing building to provide new spaces for art, performance, education and social interaction as well as new event, educational, and museum support areas. the first floor gains a multipurpose performance and learning center for lectures, rehearsals, art exhibitions and educational programs. 

the entrance has been renewed to create a more open public experience and visible museum entry while the museum shop and ticket office have been moved into the lobby. finally, a new rooftop sculpture terrace, accessed from a third-floor gallery, invites visitors to the museum to enjoy views over the gulf of mexico.

project info:

name: artis—naples baker museum

location: naples, florida, the US

architect: weiss/manfredi