Riverside, California, USA
Aligned with DLR Group’s 2030 commitment to sustainability with a high-performance building envelope and energy-reducing strategies, La Sierra Museum and Visitor Center, commissioned by La Sierra University, includes multiple gallery spaces with research and collections support including a temporary gallery while also igniting curiosity among new audiences, and embodying the essence of nature.
The architects and the University have envisioned a new museum to celebrate the world-renowned collections of archeology and natural history at the front of campus and use this visitor center as a connection to research and the community paired with new student amenity spaces such as a cafe and student lounge.
The project has been awarded an Honorable Mention at the 2023 American Architecture Awards from The Chicago Athenaeum and The European Centre for Architecture Art Design and Urban Studies.
The building is designed around the flow of the landscape and the natural water flowing through the site.
While the building is deeply embedded into the earth, the upper areas are lighter and more delicate in structure to shine as a beacon, welcoming visitors to this new iconic destination at La Sierra University.
The twin museum wings connect by a bridge that doubles as a flexible lounge and overflow gallery space.
The shaded outdoor spaces and adjacent cafè will draw students, faculty, and visitors alike and grow a new social heart of campus.
The shaded outdoor space, amphitheater seating, and adjacent cafe will draw students, faculty, and visitors alike and grow a new social heart of campus directly off the pedestrian thoroughfare Heritage Way.
The abundant plant life softens the terrace and connects with the lush oasis to the east.
The visual connections to the multiple gallery environments will spark interest and expand the museum’s audience.
Project: La Sierra University Museum and Visitor Center
Architects: DLR Group
Design Team: Dennis Bree, Dan Clevenger, Ali Dahl, Abi Denninghoff, and Viet Dam
Client: La Sierra University
Photographs: Courtesy of the DLR Group
