The Springfield Art Museum wants to create a master plan that explores renovating its building and grounds. It’s issued a Request for Qualifications (RFQ) for firms, or teams of firms, that can provide professional services for creation of the plan.
The action, announced Thursday, serves as a prelude to is 90th birthday in 2018.
In a news release, the museum says it’s interested in renovating, replacing and/or expanding its existing Education Wing. It also wants the master plan to examine how renovations to the existing building could improve visitor experience and create administrative spaces. Additionally, the museum wants its grounds to better connect with surrounding amenities, including Phelps Grove Park and Waterwise Garden.
The museum’s existing site encompasses 50,000 square feet and includes, among other things, 13 galleries, a community room, 400-seat auditorium, and studio art classrooms. It owns and maintains 4.5 acres of park-like grounds with a WPA era amphitheater.
Statements of qualifications are due by September 15, with plans to select a design team in late October. You can learn more about the master planning process here.