Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego
Photos by Alison Clancy and Nicholas Venezia
2022
Selldorf Architects, LPA, INC
46,400 GSF New Additions, 28,000 GSF Existing Building
Museums & Galleries,
Exhibitions
Originally a modern oceanfront residential structure completed for philanthropist and journalist Ellen Browning Scripps over 100 years ago, the Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego recently underwent a major expansion and renovation from 2014 through 2021, adding 46,400 SF of new spaces and renovating 28,000 SF of existing areas.
Renfro Design Group worked with the design team to sculpt a new lit environment for the museum that harmoniously blends controlled natural daylight with state-of-the art electric light; creating a subtly dynamic appearance throughout the galleries that respects curatorial requirements. An overall wash of light on the walls provides a neutral contemporary environment complementing both the new open minimalist spaces of the recent expansion as well as the existing 100-year-old structure. With its mix of electric and natural daylight, the newly renovated galleries provide a serene art experience within the breathtaking coastal setting of La Jolla beach. In addition to gallery spaces, a new entrance was created with a thoughtful lighting design to garner better circulation to the older existing buildings. A new unique event space was designed with flexible color tunable lighting inspired by the magnificent color-changing horizon, providing a variety of event lighting options ranging from weddings, live music performances, lectures, and temporary art installations.
Exterior spaces were also newly celebrated and respectfully lit to provide a safe environment that did not distract from the views or negatively impact coastal habitats. Shielded light features were carefully selected to guard against the corrosive ocean air. Along with two levels of new terraces, an existing parking lot and loading dock was transformed into an art park; offering further opportunities to mingle with the Pacific Ocean at dusk.