Home & Design

Applause

Artful Renewal

Applause


The Luce Foundation Center for American Art.

On July 1st, when the Smithsonian American Art Museum reopens its doors following a six-year renovation, it will unveil the brand new $10 million Luce Foundation Center for American Art. The first visible art storage and study center in Washington, it will present 3,300 paintings, sculptures, crafts and folk art objects in secure glass cases. Interactive kiosks and computers will provide a multi-media overview of every item on display. Washington-based Hartman-Cox architects oversaw the renovation of the entire historic building that now houses both the Smithsonian American Art Museum and the National Portrait Gallery. Originally designed by German architect Adolf Cluss in 1877, the hall pictured above was most recently used as a library and office space. The renovation team transformed it back into a graceful gallery while remaining faithful to Cluss’s design. They preserved the existing columns and balconies, re-created the marble floor according to historic patterns and installed new chandeliers based on designs of the period.

You may also like:

Waterfront Aerie
Architect Joanna Schmickel designs a modern stone farmhouse to embrace stunning Potomac River views
Work Space
Architect Marta Hansen's Annapolis studio embraces its natural surroundings
Easy Living
A design team merges accessibility and warm, modern style in a custom Bethesda abode
HOME&DESIGN, published bi-monthly by Homestyles Media Inc., is the premier magazine of architecture and fine interiors for the Washington, DC, Maryland and Virginia region.

The company also publishes an annual H&D Sourcebook of ideas and resources for homeowners and professionals alike. H&D Chesapeake Views is published bi-annually and showcases fine home design and luxury living in and around the Chesapeake Bay.

The H&D Portfolio of 100 Top Designers spotlights the superior work of selected architects, interior designers and landscape architects in major regions of the US.

Stay Connected with HOME & DESIGN Newsletter

Copyright © 2025 Home & Design. All rights reserved. | Back to top
magnifier