WHITE BEAR CENTER FOR THE ARTS [WHITE BEAR LAKE, MN]

The White Bear Center for the Arts, a non-profit art center, moved to its current location in 2012 and soon needed to expand. The 9,600 sf addition and partial renovation added a new formal entry, gallery, administrative offices, retail area, and upgraded classrooms. Expansive site work included meandering woodland trails, a labyrinth, natural pollinator gardens, dry creek beds, and outdoor classroom spaces.

The building’s design prioritizes the visual connection to the serene, tree-filled site. The light-filled entry provides dramatic views of the thickly wooded site beyond and seamlessly flows into the main gallery. Clerestory windows are placed throughout to allow for shared natural light. A double-loaded corridor functions as a secondary gallery that gently slopes up, following the natural topography of the site, leading patrons to meander the site or return down to the lobby to connect with fellow community members and artists.

The new facilities help the Art Center further its mission and broaden engagement with the surrounding community, artists, staff, and students.

Photo Credit: Peter Vondelinde