The Wilderness Society

The Wilderness Society has retained GGA (GGA) to perform a renovation of its existing Washington, DC Headquarters. The scope of work includes the reconfiguration of the entire 2nd floor office space, and a remodeling of the society’s treasured art gallery, which exhibits some of Ansel Adams greatest work. The office renovations included surgical renovations within the existing space while fully occupied. Renovations included updating lighting to meet current energy codes and sustainable practices. All finishes either new or matching existing has high recycled content and met sustainable practices.

The highlight of the space was the creation of the new Ansel Adams Gallery. As a gift to the Wilderness Society, Adams himself donated 75 of his most important landscape photographs, broken into 12 different collections. Due to constraints of the current layout, however, many of these pieces remain in storage. GGA’s design approach created a gallery space so as to establish a permanent home for this important work. The collection is one of the most significant collections in the country and the new gallery showcases these important works of art. The new design made up of simple architectural elements creates a simple backdrop for the artwork and learning experience.

Free-flowing compartments create space within space and symbolize the separation of one collection from another. A central wall serves as the “spine” of the gallery in which two contrasting settings exist on either side. Looking out over the plaza, the main side of the spine makes use of natural light filtering in through screened windows. High ceilings give the area a sense of openness that parallels the rolling land found throughout many of Adams’ images. On the opposing side, a narrower, more intimate setting uses soft lighting and low ceilings to draw visitors toward the photographs and the intimacy of detailed landscapes.

Location: Washington, DC
Project Size: 35,000 SF