Header: Casey Dunn
The Blanton Museum of Art at The University of Texas in Austin has recently undergone a transformative redesign, establishing itself as a cultural nexus where the civic heart of Austin meets the historic university campus. The internationally acclaimed architecture firm Snøhetta led this ambitious project, creating an innovative design that unifies and revitalizes the museum’s 200,000-square-foot campus. Central to this redesign is a sophisticated approach to lighting, which earned the project an Honorable Mention at the LIT Lighting Design Awards.
A visionary architectural redesign
Snøhetta’s redesign seamlessly integrates the museum’s two main buildings and Ellsworth Kelly’s iconic “Austin” into a cohesive campus. Craig Dykers, co-founder of Snøhetta, highlighted the project’s ambition:
“The Blanton holds a prominent place at the intersection of the new Texas Capitol Complex and serves as the gateway to the university campus. Our inventive landscape and reimagined building entrances fulfill that promise.”
The redesigned grounds feature gardens, entryways, and pathways connecting the site’s elements while honoring its environmental context. Over 25,000 new plants, including native species, were carefully selected for their climatic resilience, with existing vegetation, especially character-defining oak trees, thoughtfully preserved. These efforts underscore the project’s commitment to sustainability and inclusivity, creating a welcoming space for visitors and the community.
Petal canopies: A functional and aesthetic marvel
The project’s most striking feature is the canopy of petal sculptures that rises 40 feet above the grounds, providing shade and a dappled interplay of light. Each petal, spanning 30 feet in diameter, is crafted from perforated panels designed to drain rainwater through integrated columns, enabling passive irrigation. This innovative design offers relief from Austin’s intense sun and contributes to the site’s sustainability goals. The petal shapes echo the arched vaults of the museum’s loggia, framing captivating views of Ellsworth Kelly’s “Austin” and the Texas Capitol.
Crucial role of lighting design
Lighting design was integral in shaping the campus’s atmosphere and functionality. L’Observatoire International, led by Hervé Descottes with designers Carlos Garcia, Ellisrael Daing, Jenny Ivansson, Esteban Varas, and Sai Lyu, crafted a lighting scheme that enhances the museum’s architectural and natural features. Their work integrates three layers of light to create a cohesive and inviting environment:
- Core Layer: Indirect and diffuse lighting washes over architectural surfaces and textures, reducing visual clutter while illuminating pathways.
- Accent Layer: Targeted lighting highlights architectural features and art installations.
- Design Layer: Unique lighting elements, such as the illuminating petals, serve as focal points, blending functionality with aesthetic appeal.
The interplay of warm-toned lighting, concealed fixtures, and low-level illumination fosters a sense of intimacy and safety. Brightly lit pathways guide visitors. At the same time, pendants and glowing ceilings within the arcades add an inner glow, marking the transition between spaces.
Celebrating art and community
The redesigned campus incorporates site-specific artworks that amplify its cultural mission. Carmen Herrera’s mural, Verde que te quiero verde, spans the Michener Gallery Building, harmonizing with Snøhetta’s landscape design. The Butler Sound Gallery, featuring an inaugural sound installation by Bill Fontana, immerses visitors in the sounds of Texas wildlife and geological formations.
The Moody Patio, with its two stages, lawn, and seating areas, serves as a dynamic gathering space for performances and community events. During the grand opening celebration on May 13, 2023, this space came alive with live music and a participatory art experience by the Haas Brothers, reinforcing the museum’s role as a vibrant cultural hub.
The Blanton Museum’s redesign is a testament to the power of thoughtful design in transforming public spaces. Snøhetta’s architectural vision, combined with the artistry of L’Observatoire International’s lighting design, has created a functional and inspiring site. This project celebrates the museum’s world-class art collection and redefines its relationship with the city of Austin and the University of Texas campus.
Project info
Lighting Design/Product Company: L’Observatoire International
Lead Designers: Hervé Descottes
Other Designer’s: Carlos Garcia, Ellisrael Daing, Jenny Ivansson, Esteban Varas, Sai Lyu
Architecture Company: Snøhetta
Client: Blanton Museum of Art
Photo Credits: Casey Dunn / Courtesy of Blanton Museum of Art / L’Observatoire International
Completion Date: 2023
Project Location: Austin
