AIA Richmond May Program - The American Civil War Center Tour

The American Civil War Center Tour

The American Civil War Center is a collaborative design-build project between 3north (project architect), The PRD Group (exhibit designer), and Conquest Moncure & Dunn (contractor). The project consists of a new entry pavilion with ticketing and museum shop and the renovation of the historic Gun Foundry, with the addition of a new mezzanine that creates a two-story exhibit hall.

The location of the entry pavilion reveals the alignment of three historic arches on site, creating a strong entry sequence from the exterior courtyard through the lobby and into the exhibit hall. The brick arch in the lobby, a remnant corner of an historic building, is the first artifact on display in the museum and becomes a strong threshold into the exhibit hall.

The form of the entry pavilion resembles the historic factory buildings on site, with an exposed truss roof and light monitor, while the materials of glass and zinc wall panels publicize the new museum in the historic context. The extensive use of glass provides an open, well-lit lobby and maximizes the extraordinary views of historic Tredegar and the James River.

Preservation of the Gun Foundry was a prime consideration and the modern additions of electrical, HVAC, exhibits and mezzanine structure were designed to minimize the impact on the original fabric of the building. The mezzanine structure was installed without touching the original walls and designed to maintain the industrial feel of the historic building.

Cost: Members FREE, Non-members $5 payable at the door.

RSVP to Robin at acs.robin@comcast.net by May 15th.