Currier Museum of Art

Currier Museum of Art

Manchester, NH

The climate control project at the Currier Museum of Art consisted of the installation of a precision climate control system and underground expansion of the museum’s collections storage and educational facilities. The work included substantial building envelope modifications to the Beaux-Arts style historic structure and to the two modern pavilion wings which support the new HVAC system. The renovations included an upgrade to the museum’s visitor services, with a new café and expanded gift shop. A new outdoor terrace was also constructed above the underground collections storage and educational facilities.

In 2004, to prepare for a major capital program, the Currier again partnered with Harvey. The team worked closely with museum representatives, architects, engineers and consultants to determine the most cost effective approach to completing the two-phased expansion and renovation. Phase I, relocation of the historic Kennard House from Beech Street to its new location at 180 Pearl Street was completed in November 2005. The Kennard House was the former location of the museum’s offices and parking for visitors. With the Kennard House’s relocation to the Art’s Center the Currier was able to expand cultural arts programs and parking was improved for visitors at the main museum.

Phase II began in the Summer of 2006 with a major gallery addition, renovations to the 1929 Building, a glass enclosure to the current north lobby and significant site and parking improvements. Work was completed in the spring of 2008.

The work occurred in a residential area of Manchester with a portion of the work occurring while the Museum and Children’s Art Center were open. It was critical for Harvey’s personnel and subcontractors to treat the gallery staff, public and abutting neighbors with consideration and respect in order to maintain the fast-tracked schedule.

PROJECT INFO

Design Team: Ann Beha Architects

Completion Date: March 2008