In December 2021, the Hirshhorn Museum’s proposal to revitalize their 1.5-acre Sculpture Garden embedded in the National Mall was formally approved. The project’s goals are simple: the expand visitation to the National Museum of Modern Art in Washington, DC. The transformation by design architect NMRL / Hiroshi Sugimoto + Tomoyuki Sakakida in partnership with associate design architect: YUN Architecture will increase visitation to outdoor galleries by 300%; expand the presentation of Modernist bronzes by almost 50%; refresh flexible spaces for the presentation of time-based and performance art; reconnect the campus by reopening founding architect Gordon Bunshaft’s passageway. Supported by Rhodeside & Harwell, the revitalized garden will feature a 70% increase in native plantings, that in time will provide 150% more shade. To encourage community and contemplation, designers will install 330% more fixed seating. The Hirshhorn expects the project to be completed in 2024-2025, the museum’s 50th anniversary season.
Animation: Darcstudio