Rochester Art Center
Rochester, MinnesotaA Design With Elegance and Function
The Rochester Art Center functions in two architectural forms linked by a glass Grand Lobby that frames views west to downtown and into the natural river corridor. The new Center brings art outside with the proposed Zumbro Gardens, a terraced park and sculpture lawn stepping down to the waters edge. - AIA Minnesota Awards Jury
On the west end of the building, the taller Tower block mediates the new facility with the Convention Center and provides stairs and elevators and other building support services. This Tower also serves as the structural anchor for public and gallery areas in the dramatic cantilevered Art Box wing. Appearing to float over a glass lobby and the river, the three story cantilevered Art Box houses galleries and art studios.
The Zumbro River Gardens surround the building with foliage creating a serene setting for the visitor. The open, glassed public spaces on the first floor create a sense that the river flows through the building. A stone river wall stretching out toward the entrance drive and through the Center unites the entire site with the river. Its sinuous form evokes the former natural edge of the river.
related quote
"The two simple volumes, slightly offset and clad in different metals - copper and zinc - are handled well. The zinc box seems to float, with the space between the two masses bringing light into the center."