The Smithsonian Institution’s National Museum of the American Indian (NMAI) is part of the Smithsonian Institution’s extensive museums and research complexes. Consisting of two sites, the main museum in Washington, DC and the NMAI Cultural Resource Center in Suitland, Maryland, a master plan was sought to identify opportunities for improvement for both sites for the first time since opening in 2004 and 1999, respectively. Working with Studio Gang Architects, opportunities were identified within the existing conditions to optimize the exterior use for both facilities. After prioritizing areas of opportunity, guiding principals were developed and design alternatives to improve site access, wayfinding, sustainability, and landscape management practices, while respecting the original design narrative.

Work completed at OLIN while Derek Hoetmer was employed as a landscape architect.

© OLIN ©Studio Gang Architects

LOCATION / Washington, DC

CLIENT / Smithsonian Institution

DATE / 2017

TEAM / Studio Gang Architects