Discover the Stunning Shepparton Art Museum

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. The Positioning of the Building
3. Design Elements for Urban Design Response
   1. The Site and Landscape Design
   2. Building Size and Footprint
   3. Building Orientation and Public Spaces
   4. Elevation and Benefits
   5. Screening and Landform Design
   6. Sculptural Form and Composition
4. Facade Design and Building Identity
5. Daylighting and Gallery Design
6. Connection to the Landscape and Lake
7. Internal Brief and Spatial Arrangement
8. Ground Floor and Main Entrance
9. Gallery Spaces and Eckoff House
10. Function Spaces and Terrace
11. Conclusion

The Shepparton Art Museum: A Unique Urban Design Response

The Shepparton Art Museum, also known as SAM, is a remarkable architectural project designed by Denton Corker Marshall. In this article, we will explore the various design elements that contributed to SAM's unique urban design response. From the positioning of the building to the internal spatial arrangement, each aspect of SAM has been carefully considered to create a space that seamlessly integrates with its surroundings and provides a memorable experience for visitors.

1. Introduction

SAM has quickly become a cultural landmark in Shepparton since its opening in October 2021. The design for SAM was selected as a winning entry in a limited design competition in April 2017. This architectural masterpiece showcases Denton Corker Marshall's expertise in creating buildings that harmoniously blend with their environment. In this article, we will delve deeper into the design elements that make SAM stand out as a unique urban design response.

2. The Positioning of the Building

The positioning of the building on the existing site was crucial to SAM's overall design. Situated in a popular park with a beautiful lake, Denton Corker Marshall strategically located SAM to maximize visibility and make it a focal point of the landscape. By positioning the building close to the road leading into town, SAM becomes easily accessible to visitors and creates a strong visual impact upon approach.

3. Design Elements for Urban Design Response

3.1 The Site and Landscape Design

Before the construction of SAM, extensive work was done to prepare the site. The location, which previously housed a petrol station, required decontamination and soil remediation. Denton Corker Marshall collaborated with landscape designers Urban Initiatives to develop a building solution that would harmonize with the surrounding park and wetlands. Fire swales vegetated with indigenous plants were incorporated into the landscape design, focusing on retention and repair.

3.2 Building Size and Footprint

SAM was designed to have a small footprint, maximizing the beloved park space. With a maximum area of approximately 1200 square meters, the building was extruded over five floor levels to accommodate the required floor space of 5,300 square meters. This compact design not only preserves the park's open areas but also allows SAM to seamlessly integrate into the landscape.

3.3 Building Orientation and Public Spaces

To create distinct community and public spaces, the square building was slightly rotated. This rotation gave rise to four identified areas within the museum: the Civic four Court, the southern arrival and drop-off area, the shaded community art space, and the art hill. Each space serves a specific purpose, ensuring that SAM caters to various community needs and engages visitors from different angles.

3.4 Elevation and Benefits

In the relatively flat landscape of Shepparton, SAM's elevation brings several advantages. Being tall in Shepparton makes the building a true beacon in the landscape, serving as a landmark for the city. Additionally, the elevated position allows SAM to be viewable from all angles, offering a 360-degree experience to the visitors. It creates an opportunity to appreciate the surroundings and connect with the lake and the parkland in a unique way.

3.5 Screening and Landform Design

The screening of the back-of-house area under the landform known as the Art Hill is a major urban design attribute of SAM. This deliberate screening conceals the loading dock, services, and waste rooms, transforming the building into a sculptural form within the parkland. The Art Hill not only separates the functions but also serves as an upper ground floor and the entrance to the cafe, accentuating the seamless connection between the interior and the exterior.

3.6 Sculptural Form and Composition

SAM is a visual marvel, conceptualized as a lens sculpture comprising four monumental floating L-shaped plates. These plates, seemingly suspended in the landscape, come together at different heights to form an abstract composition. Inspired by Richard Serra's installation in the Qatari desert, Denton Corker Marshall created a design that captivates viewers. The building's unique composition becomes more evident upon approach and invites visitors to explore its interior.

4. Facade Design and Building Identity

All four building frontages of SAM feature an L-shaped plate, which gives identity to the respective areas and their users. The facade plates include minimal windows to ensure subdued daylight in the galleries, creating an ambiance suitable for showcasing artworks. However, Denton Corker Marshall also incorporated a central Galleria and two large windows strategically positioned to draw visitors into the building and connect them to the landscape and the lake from within.

5. Daylighting and Gallery Design

SAM's design strikes a delicate balance between controlled daylighting and gallery functionality. While the galleries have minimal windows and subdued daylight, the central Galleria and transitional exhibition spaces benefit from two large windows on the east and west facades. These windows not only allow ample natural light into these areas but also offer captivating views of the landscape, enticing visitors to explore further.

6. Connection to the Landscape and Lake

SAM emphasizes its connection to the landscape and the lake throughout its design. From the carefully planned positioning of the building to the strategic placement of windows, Denton Corker Marshall ensured that visitors can experience the natural beauty of the surroundings from within the museum. SAM serves as a gateway to the park, providing visitors with a visual and physical connection to the landscape, creating a truly immersive experience.

7. Internal Brief and Spatial Arrangement

SAM's internal layout was designed to accommodate various functions and spaces, ensuring a seamless flow within the museum. The ground floor houses the main entrance and the visitor information center, providing a welcoming space for visitors to orient themselves. The upper floors include gallery spaces, exhibition areas, administrative spaces, and even a bar, library, and terrace on the top floor. Each level offers a unique experience to visitors, creating a dynamic and engaging environment.

8. Ground Floor and Main Entrance

The ground floor of SAM is designed with the visitor's experience in mind. As the main entrance, it sets the tone for the entire museum. It provides access to the visitor information center, where guests can receive guidance and further information about the museum and its offerings. This floor also serves as a hub connecting the various gallery spaces, creating a seamless flow of movement throughout the museum.

9. Gallery Spaces and Eckoff House

SAM boasts a range of gallery spaces to showcase different forms of art. These spaces are carefully designed to provide the best possible environment for viewing artworks. The galleries feature minimal windows to control daylight and lighting conditions to enhance the visual experience. Additionally, SAM includes an Eckoff House area, which serves as a dedicated space for administrative purposes, ensuring the smooth operation of the museum.

10. Function Spaces and Terrace

SAM offers more than just gallery spaces. The museum includes function spaces that cater to various events. With a bar, library, and terrace on the top floor, SAM provides a stunning backdrop for social gatherings and special occasions. The terrace, overlooking the lake, offers a breathtaking view and serves as a connection to the outside landscape. It further enhances the overall visitor experience and adds a touch of versatility to SAM's offerings.

11. Conclusion

The Shepparton Art Museum, with its unique urban design response, stands as a testament to Denton Corker Marshall's expertise in creating architectural masterpieces. From the positioning of the building to the sculptural form and intricate design elements, every aspect of SAM has been carefully planned and executed to offer visitors a memorable experience. SAM's integration with the landscape, connection to the lake, and engaging internal spaces ensure its place as a significant cultural landmark in Shepparton.

Highlights

• The Shepparton Art Museum (SAM) is a unique urban design response by Denton Corker Marshall.
• SAM's positioning maximizes visibility and creates a focal point in the landscape.
• The compact building size and footprint preserve park space and seamlessly integrate SAM into the surroundings.
• SAM's elevation makes it a beacon in the landscape and allows for a 360-degree viewing experience.
• The screening of the back-of-house area under the Art Hill creates a sculptural form within the parkland.
• SAM's facade design and building identity give each area a distinct character while preserving the functionality of the galleries.
• Controlled daylighting and strategic window placement enhance the gallery experience and connect visitors to the landscape.
• SAM's internal layout offers various spaces, including gallery areas, administrative spaces, and function spaces.
• The ground floor serves as the main entrance and connects visitors to the visitor information center and gallery spaces.
• SAM's function spaces, including a bar, library, and terrace, provide versatility and stunning views of the lake.

FAQ

Q: What is the inspiration behind SAM's design? A: SAM draws inspiration from Richard Serra's installation in the Qatari desert, which utilizes thin monolithic steel plates. This inspiration led to the creation of the four monumental floating L-shaped plates that give SAM its distinctive sculptural form.

Q: How does SAM connect visitors to the landscape? A: SAM's design seamlessly integrates with the landscape by strategically positioning windows to offer views of the surrounding park and lake. The terrace on the top floor further enhances this connection, allowing visitors to enjoy the natural beauty while being inside the museum.

Q: What are some of the unique features of SAM's internal layout? A: SAM's internal layout includes gallery spaces, administrative areas, and function spaces. The inclusion of a bar, library, and terrace on the top floor provides visitors with additional amenities and unforgettable experiences.