Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum Expansion / 2012

ArchitectRenzo Piano Building Workshop

Executive ArchitectStantec

Structural EngineerBuro Happold Consulting Engineers

Services EngineerBuro Happold Consulting Engineers

ContractorShawmut Design and Construction

Façade ContractorGartner

Commissioned in 2005, this 70,000 ft2 (6,500 m2) addition respectfully stands 50 ft (15.2 m) away from the existing historic Italianate villa, a distance in 1:1 proportion to its height, and connected via a clear vaulted glass corridor between shade trees. The construction material palette and landscaping remain consistent with the existing museum and its horticultural emphasis. A highly transparent glass façade is featured at the ground level and natural opaque cladding materials, such as patinated copper and red brick, are used at areas with private program requirements. Front collaborated with the design and construction team, from schematic design through construction administration, on all glazing systems, in addition to the distinctive green rain screen cladding, and architecturally exposed structural steel framing.