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Mingei International Museum

Opening up the Mingei

Transforming a historic museum into a more accessible cultural destination

Client

Mingei International Museum


Location

San Diego




Size

53,000 sq ft


Completion

2021


Awards and Accreditations

  • AIA National Honor Award for Interior Architecture (2024)
  • AIA California Citation Award (2024)
  • AIA New York Honor & Design Awards (2022)
  • Chicago Athenaeum International Architecture Award / Honorable Mention (2022)
  • AIA San Diego Honor Awards (2021, 2022, 2023)

Challenge

The project involved transforming the existing museum into a more accessible and welcoming destination while expanding its cultural and public amenities within a historic building.

Solution

The transformation introduced six public entrances at plaza level and converted a 1,700 sq ft non-functional loading dock into additional civic space. The redesigned museum includes a courtyard garden, upper-level terraces overlooking Balboa Park, a multipurpose theatre, an education centre, a craft café and retail facilities. The second level accommodates the main exhibition galleries, research areas and an art and media library.

Outcome

The transformation has expanded the museum's facilities and strengthened its connection to Balboa Park, creating new opportunities for exhibitions, performances, learning and public gathering.

Project Location

Museums, Arts & Culture

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