Williams College Museum of Art

Williamstown, MA

Implementation

The Williams College Museum of Art (WCMA) creates and inspires exceptional experiences with art that are integral to a liberal arts education, lifelong learning, and human connection. As a department of Williams College, a private liberal arts institution in Berkshire County, Massachusetts, WCMA places art objects at the center of teaching and learning.

Established in 1926, the museum has become a hub for engaging with visual art, impacting both the campus community and beyond. The college's renowned art history program and collaborations with regional institutions, including The Clark Art Institute and MASS MoCA, have produced generations of scholars and leaders in the arts.

In early 2024, Williams College unveiled the design for a new, purpose-built home for WCMA, designed by the internationally recognized firm SO–IL. Scheduled to open in 2027, this new building will enhance the museum's role as a creative catalyst for the college and the Berkshires. The new building project emphasizes sustainability and energy efficiency, addressing the climate impact of the museum with advanced solutions.

Supported by FCI Implementation funding, a Direct Digital Control (DDC) system will be implemented to optimize the energy efficiency of the building's HVAC system, allowing for centralized control and monitoring of all art spaces and HVAC equipment, ensuring reduced energy consumption, improved performance, and enhanced maintenance. By providing precise control of temperature and humidity, the DDC system will create a stable environment for sensitive artwork while reducing carbon emissions. This project highlights Williams College's commitment to sustainable practices in the visual arts sector, offering a cost-effective and environmentally friendly solution for the museum's new home.

Banner: The central lobby serves as entry and connector to all galleries and spaces. Top: South elevation of SO–IL’s design for the new Williams College Museum of Art. Middle: Daylight Gallery: Right-sized for display and engagement, there will be a range of large, medium, and small galleries. Above: One of eleven dedicated gallery spaces in the new museum. All renderings: Jeudi.Wang, courtesy SO–IL and the Williams College Museum of Art

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