The Seattle Art Museum has big plans for the Asian Art Museum at Volunteer Park and they’re looking for input from the public and as well as potential bidders.
The 83-year-old museum is looking at $45 million in renovations and upgrades that include an update to heating and cooling systems, remodeling bathrooms, and seismic work as well as potentially-adding a 7,000-square-foot expansion that includes a 2,000-square-foot gallery. SAM and LMN Architects expect the museum to close after February 2017 as 18 months of work is completed.
Before that can happen, they’re looking for input from the public. A September 10 community outreach gathering is scheduled at Nagomi Tea House (519 6th Ave) and a second one will be held at the museum on October 15. More meetings are said to be planned in the winter.
Meanwhile, a pre-bid meeting was held today at the office of BNBuilders, the general contractor/construction manager on the project. Proposals for the renovation are due September 1 for a mechanical contractor, construction manager for fire protection, HVAC, and plumbing.
Ultimately, the project will need approval not just from the Seattle Department of Construction and Inspections (SDCI) but also the Seattle Landmarks Preservation Board.