Preserving the Past
While Building the Future
The new 90,000sf Barnes Art Education Center will house the Foundation’s world-renowned art collection in galleries that replicate the original Merion, PA galleries. A work of art in itself, the steel frame concrete structure features stone panels from Israel, a glass curtainwall exterior and custom wood and stone floors, plaster ceilings and custom woodwork. The state-of-the-art facility includes space for:
- special exhibitions gallery
- art conservation
- classrooms
- an auditorium
- Light Court, an enclosure that provides event space
- retail gift shop and café
Landscaping on the four-and-a-half acre site will compliment the building and include stone steps, reflecting ponds and fountains.
LEED Platinum Certification
Assisted by BIM
Designed to achieve LEED Platinum certification, sustainable elements include:
- a green roof
- 945 photovoltaic cells
- energy efficient water collection system
- 95% recycled content steel
- recycled concrete
- reclaimed finish materials
- low VOC paint
- charging station for electric cars
BIM is being utilized to coordinate the implementation of all architectural and structural plans and the installation of all building systems, including heating, plumbing, mechanical and electrical. It is also being utilized to coordinate underground utilities, including construction of three underground infiltration basins, which will collect storm water from the buildings and site. Installation of all mechanical, electrical and plumbing systems are also part of the comprehensive model, with special attention to temperature control and energy efficiency.
