by arslan_ahmed | June 28, 2023 12:21 pm
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The Harrison McCain Pavilion, an addition to the Beaverbrook Art Gallery—a Fredericton, New Brunswick, landmark—has been designed as a modern take on the existing architecture, with the goal of creating a public space fostering engagement and community.
Designed by KPMB Architects, the 836-m2 (9,000-sf) pavilion is the last and most prominent element in the gallery’s three-phase expansion. It is strategically positioned opposite the province’s Legislative Assembly. The pavilion respects the surrounding heritage district and harmonizes with the surrounding urban landscape through the choice of materials and design. The facade, constructed using precast concrete and glass, features a gentle curve that mirrors the contours of Queen Street and the Saint John River. Additionally, a classical colonnade reminiscent of the area’s porticos and porches further enhances the pavilion’s esthetic appeal.
Through the structure’s fanned façade, passersby are given the opportunity to engage with the provincial art collection from Queen Street, peering into the new public spaces. In the building’s interior, a multifunctional lobby fosters community engagement with a café, support spaces, membership and visitor services, a gift shop, and ticket hosting. Here, a fireplace at the east end of the pavilion adds further warmth. The sweeping staircase along the building’s exterior acts as the Beaverbrook’s front porch, creating a community meeting place—a space for connection and gathering.
The design also accommodates the water level of the Saint John River, which rises dramatically every spring surrounding the Beaverbrook Art Gallery. Taking this into consideration, the project elevates the ground floor well above the floodplain. The building is an important project for the people of New Brunswick as it increases access to their provincial art gallery’s renowned collection of Canadian, Indigenous, and international artworks and cultural artifacts.
The Beaverbrook Art Gallery brings art and community together in a dynamic cultural environment dedicated to the highest standards in exhibitions, programming, education, and stewardship.
“Designing the Harrison McCain Pavilion for the Beaverbrook Art Gallery presented an important opportunity to provide a greater sense of inclusivity and accessibility into a Fredericton landmark,” says KPMB founding partner, Shirley Blumberg. “We hope the new addition will become a catalyst for even more meaningful engagement with the community.”
Source URL: https://www.constructioncanada.net/frederictons-landmark-art-gallery-addition-redefines-architectural-excellence/
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