First unveiled in 2014, Bjarke Ingels Group (BIG) has revised its initial $2 billion proposal for the development of the Smithsonian Institution campus masterplan in Washington, DC after extensive public consultation.
The firm’s new plan incorporates expanding the visitor center, a new education space beneath the garden, creating clearer entrances and pathways between the gardens and museums, and replacing outdated mechanical systems for the aging buildings, all while keeping the personality of the Enid A. Haupt Garden intact, which currently sits on top of sunken museum space below grade.
The centerpiece remains the signature Smithsonian Castle. BIG will restore the historic great hall, and lift up corners of the garden that were there previously to create entryways to an underground concourse. The plan will bring the landscape back to ground level, with a bridge spanning part of the garden to connect the upper and lower levels.
BIG revised its plans for the project after a petition opposed to the reconstruction of the garden launched in 2016. The firm will begin work on the campus overhaul in 2021, starting with the structural reinforcement and restoration of the castle.
