Amherst College - Exhibition Hall Restoration
Project Context
The Folger Shakespeare Library Exhibition Hall project transformed a traditional library space into a world-class exhibition venue that combines cutting-edge museum technology with intimate spaces for experiencing rare materials from the world's largest Shakespeare collection.
Landmark Logix managed this complex renovation that required creating state-of-the-art environmental controls to protect priceless artifacts while providing an engaging visitor experience. The project included installing advanced lighting systems, climate control, security infrastructure, and interactive digital displays—all within the constraints of a historic 1932 building.
The new exhibition hall features flexible gallery spaces that can accommodate rotating exhibitions, permanent collection displays, and special programming. Advanced conservation technology ensures artifacts are displayed safely while multimedia elements create an immersive storytelling environment.
Project Details
- Location
- —
- Client
- Folger Shakespeare Library
- Architect
- —
- Construction Manager
- —
- Duration
- 18 months
- Project Value
- $18.5M
- Project Type
- Cultural / Exhibition
- Sector
- Cultural & Arts
- Categories
- Cultural Institution, Education & Research, Exhibition Design
Delivery Challenge
Creating a world-class 12,000 square-foot exhibition hall within a 1932 Art Deco landmark presented extraordinary challenges. The project demanded integrating advanced lighting, climate control, and interactive display technology into a historic structure while maintaining museum operations and ensuring the continuous protection of priceless Shakespeare collections throughout the 18-month construction period.
- Creating modern exhibition spaces within a 1932 Art Deco building
- Integrating advanced lighting and climate control for artifact display
- Meeting accessibility standards within historic structure
- Maintaining museum operations during construction
Owner-Side Advisory Role
Landmark Logix provided project leadership for the creation of this new exhibition hall, coordinating architects, exhibit designers, and construction teams within an active cultural institution.
Project Highlights
Project Gallery
Project Timeline
Phase 1: Planning & Design
Comprehensive planning with curators, conservators, and exhibition designers to define technical requirements and visitor experience goals.
Phase 2: Infrastructure Installation
Installation of advanced HVAC, lighting, security systems, and structural modifications to support exhibition cases and digital displays.
Phase 3: Exhibition Installation
Careful installation of custom exhibition cases, interactive displays, multimedia elements, and conservation-grade lighting systems.
Phase 4: Grand Opening
Successful launch of the new exhibition hall with inaugural exhibition and positive feedback from visitors and the museum community.
Key Achievements
Museum Technology Excellence
State-of-the-art climate control maintaining ±2°F and ±3% RH for artifact preservation
Zero Artifact Damage
Perfect safety record during construction with zero incidents involving collection materials
Advanced Security Integration
Multi-layer security system protecting priceless artifacts while maintaining visitor accessibility
On-Time Delivery
Completed 2 weeks ahead of schedule, allowing extra time for exhibition installation
Visitor Experience
Highly praised visitor experience with recognition for exhibition quality and accessibility
Flexible Design
Modular exhibition system allowing for quick changeovers between rotating exhibitions
Scope of Services
Construction Management
- Overall project coordination and scheduling
- Contractor and subcontractor management
- Quality control and inspection protocols
- Budget oversight and cost control
Specialized Systems
- Museum-grade environmental control systems
- Conservation lighting design and installation
- Security and access control integration
- Audiovisual and interactive display systems
Advisory Services Applied
Explore the owner-side advisory capabilities relevant to this engagement.
Design & Regulatory Management
Independent design oversight, regulatory coordination, and compliance management that protects owner interests across permitting, preservation, and design phases.
Construction Management & Quality Control
Independent field oversight, quality assurance, and contractor accountability — ensuring what gets built matches what was designed and contracted.
Technology Integration & Project Transition
Systems commissioning, technology verification, and operational transition — ensuring the building works before the owner accepts it.
Considering owner-side advisory for a cultural exhibition project?
Landmark Logix provides experienced project leadership for complex exhibition, museum, and cultural institution projects.