To provoke curiosity and interest in the world-class collection, the new building will provide a legible point of arrival and orientation, an interface between garden and city, culture and cultivation.
The design of the visitor center is seen as a seamless extension of the landscape. Nested into an existing berm, the center is experienced as a three-dimensional continuation of the garden path system, framing a series of views into and through the garden.
Sited at Washington Avenue, the visitor center wanders from the city into the garden, providing clear orientation and access to the major precincts. The visitor center includes an orientation room, information lobby, gift shop, exhibition gallery, cafe, and an elliptical events space.
Photo credits: Weiss/Manfredi, Aaron Booher