Saint Joseph’s University Frances M. Maguire Art Museum

Merion Station, PA

In the building formerly occupied by the internationally acclaimed Barnes Foundation, the project team completed an extensive exterior restoration and interior transformation of the historic gallery building, The museum is located in an active 12-acre arboretum outside of Philadelphia in Merion Station, PA.

The goals of the project was to update the prescriptive circulation pattern into a contemporary, dynamic, flexible gallery space for rotating exhibits, the University’s art collection, integrated teaching spaces, and art conservation. The building’s systems, lighting, technology, and acoustics were comprehensively upgraded to meet contemporary museum standards and enhance sustainability. A significant exterior restoration included deep cleaning of the building’s limestone facade and replacement of damaged and deteriorated elements with stone from the original French quarry.

SF: 16,000
Architect: DIGSAU
Engineer: IMEG
Cost: 4.5 Million