We were awarded the commission for the Freeport Arts Center through an invited competition.

The design first engages the public from the exterior, which expresses three elements: a large horizontal volume of obscured glass with a clear glass base; an interior enclosure visible through both glass types; and a vertical zinc-clad tower to house non-public operations. The transparency of the base clearly indicates the main entry, and follows the change in elevation of the ramp system between the glass and interior enclosure, permitting views to public space below grade. At the entry, the visitor has the choice of being visually drawn into the lobby, and from there directed to the galleries and museum store by the organization of space and use of light, or following the ramp system against a curved wall to approach the reception hall and education spaces.

The primary structure of the building is steel frame. The curved wall that divides the perimeter circulation from the interior spaces is clad in an economical illuminated polycarbonate. The exterior glazing and main stairway are supported in tension by a steel cable system to emphasize the openness of the atrium. The clear glass of the exterior uses insulated storefront panels, and the obscured glass curtain wall uses honeycomb insets to create the effect of a translucent veil. The main galleries have stretched nylon ceilings allowing for the movement of air as well as for the control of ambient lighting from both artificial and natural lighting sources.