Architecture & Arthouse

Time for a slightly embarrassing revelation: This past Friday was my first time to see the inside of Arthouse since its renovation. I know! I know! I am a bad art lover. I mean, sure, I've driven by it, walked by it, and even paused to inspect the exterior. But I had not gone inside it.

I can now say that I'm thoroughly impressed. The building has a natural flow to it. The stairs are obvious, the gallery areas open and inviting, and the narrow spaces scream transitional hallway space. Lewis.Tsurumaki.Lewis Architects did a magnificent job.

One of my favorite, dramatic elements of the design is the main staircase leading up the second floor. The floating stairs are unique - made from gorgeous Ipe (Brazilian hardwood). Each stair wraps up one side of the stairwell to form a fence-like wall for the hallway of the second floor. It has an effortless feel, yet is a functional design element and adds visual interest and rich color to an otherwise neutral interior palette.

There are also spots where the original brick is still exposed, reminding the viewer/visitor of the building's past. In 1851 the building became the first 3-story brick building on Congress Ave. Now the 3-story structure is dwarfed by surrounding steel skyscrapers, but it still offers a fantastic, although limited, view from the rooftop.

Not only do you get to see great exhibits when visiting Arthouse, you also get to walk through a beautiful, thoughtful design.



Pictures & More Info 

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Opening of Anxiety of Photography

"Anxiety of Photography" opened tonight @ Arthouse.

Initial reaction from yours truly, a volunteer docent:

I love openings of exhibits at museums. It's a wholly separate experience from a typical museum visit. In place of the soft whispers is a welcoming din of voices (I'm sure serving alcohol at these events helps in that regard). I've found my experience of the art itself is changed by the difference in surroundings. Instead of an austere museum space, there are people everywhere; other bodies are close by, sometimes obstructing the view of the art, and it feels like much more of a communal activity than a singular viewing on a typical visit. I was hoping for some good "overheard" conversations, but the design of the building causes the conversations around you to turn into muffled white noise. I was really disappointed about this when trying to listen to an elderly man explain to his companions the way gelatin plates can be manipulated.

Also, openings bring such a diverse crowd! I'm always thrilled to see young children at museums (and this is coming from someone with a generally strong dislike for kids). It gives me hope for the future to see parents taking the time to expose children to art, to instill in them an appreciation for a museum visit.



The view from the top of Arthouse at night is stunning! They have a prime location downtown right near the capital off of Congress & 7th street. Go there. Climb the stairs. Be amazed. Oh, and bring your camera when you do.

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