Project Overview
The Board of Trustees has selected RMJM Hillier, one of the nation's leading architectural firms. Hillier
Architecture, known for creating environments that help shape human experience,
will design an expansion and renovation plan to address the Michener's current
and future needs.
RMJM Hillier has completed projects in 41 states and 27 countries and
has been honored with more than 250 national, state and local design awards. Yet
the firm's local roots in Princeton, New Jersey (where they have been located
for 40 years) ensure that they understand the importance of balancing regional
pride with world-class achievements.
Phase I: A New Two-Level Wing ($ 6 million)
The first phase of the expansion and renovation program will create a new wing
that will include a new 5,000 square foot gallery on the upper level that will
be large enough to accommodate major touring national exhibits. This exhibition
space will also have the flexibility to be subdivided into smaller galleries for
both traveling exhibits and the permanent collection.
This level will also house an orientation area where videos can be shown and
visitors can be better prepared to enjoy the total museum experience. The new
gallery design will create more effective circulation among the galleries than
is currently available, allowing visitors to walk through the entire museum
without retracing their steps.
The lower level of the new wing will improve and expand the Museum's
curatorial and administrative capabilities. Staff offices and a private study
room will be created to meet the needs of professional staff and researchers. A
state-of-the-art preparation and handling facility will also be established.
Finally, new mechanical systems will be installed for the entire museum which
will include planned environmental innovations that will reduce long-term
operating costs.

Phase I (Green): A new Two-Level Wing ($6 Million)
Phase II (Yellow): Event Space Renovation and Expansion ($3 Million)
and Conversion of the Silverman Pavillion into an Education Complex ($1 Million)
Enlarged view of the floor plan.
Phase II: Conversion of the Ann and Herman Silverman Pavilion into an
Education Complex ($ 1million) and Event Space Renovation and Expansion ($3
million)
Half of all Michener attendees, adults and children, visit the museum to
participate in educational programs, which include art enrichment for
pre-schoolers and elementary school students; art lessons and gallery tours for
children; and gallery talks; "meet the artist" programs, and concerts for
adults.
Renovations to the Silverman Pavilion, will allow for the creation of two
multi-purpose classrooms and lecture space, an orientation area and a children's
gallery.
The proposed education complex will provide opportunities for diverse audiences
to develop a lifelong appreciation for and involvement in the arts.
The Event Space Renovation and Expansion will help accommodate growing community
and regional demand for access to the Michener, while improving the museum's
ability to sustain itself through earned income opportunities, the renovation
will increase the functionality of the 4,000 square foot sculpture garden and
patio area. The patio area will be covered by glass to provide expanded space
for public programs such as lectures, summer concerts and other events. It will
also be available for museum galas, jazz nights, demonstrations and exhibition
openings. This exciting, newly created indoor public space will greatly change
the profile and functionality of the Museum. It will become a premiere event
resource for visitors.
PROJECT TEAM DIRECTORY
Architect
RMJM Hillier, Barbara A. Hillier, AIA, Principal
Bradley Walters, AIA, Senior Associate
Michael Levin, AIA, Associate Principal
Construction Manager
E. Allen Reeves, Inc.
Robert N. Reeves, Jr., President
Michael Bennett, VP of Estimating
Samuel Moore, Estimator
Kenneth Robertson, P.E. Executive VP of Operations
Michael Malloy, VP of Construction
MEP + Fire Protection Engineer
Altieri Sebor Wieber, J. Kenny Wieber, Jr. P.E.
Structural Engineer
Harrison-Hamnett, P. C. John Harrison, P.E.
Lighting Design
George Sexton Associates, George S. Sexton III, Principal
Site / Civil Engineer
Carroll Engineering Corporation, H. Joon Pak, P.E.
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