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    © Brian Rose
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    © Brian Rose

New Jersey State Museum

Trenton, New Jersey

Client: New Jersey Department of State
Architect: Farewell Mills Gatsch Architects
Completion: 2008

This four year renovation to the main building notes the first major upgrade since its opening in 1965. The $15 million infrastructure revamp included improvements to the building’s envelope, installation of new mechanical and electrical systems with an emphasis on energy efficiency, and a redesign of the collection spaces to better support the current museum program and provide opportunity for growth.

FMS designed the lighting throughout the galleries, circulation spaces, gift shop, café, visitor amenities, staff offices, and support areas. We also consulted on the lighting for the new storage facility which aids in the preservation of the artwork.

One of the main architectural changes to the building is the addition of floor-to-ceiling windows along the first floor, revealing views of the DelawareRiver as the backdrop to the exhibitions and special events held in the space. This new allowance of natural light creates a more welcoming and open environment. In the galleries, adjustable track lighting and minimal downlighting illuminates the space allowing for maximum visibility and flexibility of the artwork program.