The Seattle Art Museum hosted a groundbreaking ceremony for the expansion and renovation of the Seattle Asian Art Museum Wednesday, March 13. Located in the center of Volunteer Park in the Capitol Hill neighborhood of Seattle, the historic, 1933 building hosts an inspiring collection of Japanese, Chinese, Korean, Indian, Himalayan, and southeast Asian art.

The groundbreaking ceremony featured remarks from Kimberly Rorschach, Director and CEO of SAM, and was attended by community leaders, city representatives, SAM executives, project donors, and members of the community, as well as several people from the design and construction teams who are proud to contribute to the ongoing art community.

“We cannot be more proud to help improve the architectural treasures that hosts one of the most significant collections of Asian art in the world,” Brad Rock, OAC’s project manager, said. “Working with SAM and this incredible team has been a reflection of all of our devotion to Seattle’s ongoing place as a home for the arts.

Much needed architectural and structural improvements will help protect the city’s landmark, preserve the museums artifacts, and keep visitors safe. In addition to adding 3,290 square feet, plans include upgrading the museums outdated heating and cooling system, enhancing the current loading dock, adding an art freight elevator, and performing critically needed seismic upgrades.

OAC, providing construction management services, is looking forward to SAAM reopening its doors and welcoming new and returning visitors while showing off its new park lobby, art gallery, and education space.