SOUTHFIELD — The Zaha Hadid-designed Eli and Edythe Broad Art Museum at Michigan State University celebrated its opening this weekend.
Designed by world-renowned architect Zaha Hadid, known for the “unbuildable” building, Michigan State University’s new Eli and Edythe Broad Art Museum pushes architectural boundaries and challenges conventional construction. Constructed of sloped steel and concrete with a pleated metal and glass exterior, carefully piecing together dynamic dimensions and non-traditional materials challenged the team from the very beginning. Atypical building techniques were a part of everyday construction.
The 46,000 square foot facility will house a collection of 7,500 objects from the Greek and Roman periods through the Renaissance and Modern era. However, the new museum will place greater emphasis on new work, shifting its position from simply being an academic institution, to that of a more active player in the arts world.
Barton Malow served as the construction manager for the building that has over 70 percent of its space dedicated for art gallery and art display. Other elements include an education wing, museum shop, visitors’ café, staff offices, and study center.
“It was a great honor and opportunity to be involved in a truly iconic building. One has to see it, both inside and outside, to really appreciate it. It was a tremendous team effort by all involved to bring this very unique structure to reality,” said Ben Maibach III, Barton Malow chairman and CEO.
To assist Pritzker-prize winning Zaha Hadid, international Design Architect and partner in the delivery of the Museum, Michigan State University commissioned two local firms having long-standing relationships with them to act as the Architect of Record — Integrated Design Solutions, and site planner and landscape architect — Hamilton Anderson Associates.
To hear how the team completed this extraordinary project, please view the video on Barton Malow’s YouTube Channel at: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=63A-Ep_ryBY&feature=youtu.be
