Boston, MA – July 22, 2008 – The home of what many critics consider the nation’s most important collection of American art will receive a complete renovation and expansion by Shawmut Design and Construction (www.shawmut.com), a leading national construction management firm. In collaboration with project architect Centerbrook Architects and Planners, LLP, Shawmut will construct a 27,000 sf addition to the renowned Addison Gallery of American Art located on the Phillips Academy campus in Andover.
The construction, which is slated to begin in August and last about a year and a half, adds art storage and classroom space for the school’s art program. Shawmut’s team is preparing to install museum-quality temperature and humidity controls to the space, as well as sophisticated fire-safety systems and universal accessibility. New features include an education center with a library, and a loading dock.
“We are excited to be working on such an important museum for American art,” said Michele Murphy, Shawmut’s Managing Director of Cultural and Historic Construction. “Our team specializes in the type of precision necessary for sensitive museum environments. We have the unique skills, passion for craftsmanship and attention to detail that goes hand-in-hand with occupied museum construction and renovation projects.”
The adjacent Elson Arts Center will remain fully occupied throughout the project. In order to preserve safety and productivity for the students on campus, Shawmut’s teams will implement their customary cutting-edge safety and communication program. An extensive pre-construction phase has helped Phillips Academy maximize their objectives alongside efficient budgeting.
The Addison Gallery, built in 1929, was the nation’s first museum dedicated solely to American art. This renovation and expansion is the first major work done to the space since 1931. The museum contains paintings by Winslow Homer, Edward Hopper, John Twachtman, John Singer Sargent, Georgia O'Keeffe, Ansel Adams, Diane Arbus, Dorothea Lange and Robert Mapplethorpe. Its collection, including a fleet of early 20th century model ships, has begun transition to a climate-controlled offsite location.
About Shawmut Design and Construction
Shawmut Design and Construction is a 100% employee-owned company headquartered in Boston with offices in New York, Providence, Las Vegas, Atlantic City, and New Haven. Shawmut is a leading ENR top 100-ranked national construction management firm providing client-oriented services in the following markets: Academic, Commercial, Corporate Interiors, Cultural and Historic Preservation, Healthcare and Science, Gaming, Restaurants, Retail, Spas and Health Clubs. For more information, visit Shawmut’s website at www.shawmut.com.
