The first challenge was the new addition, which would include the entry lobby and reception area. It was feared that the three-story space would appear cold, cavernous and unwelcoming. To humanize the entry I commissioned an artist to design a ceiling-suspended sculpture of translucent fabric that appears to tumble out of the skylight grid and partially fills the empty space.

The sculpture reiterates the architectural elements insuring its intentional presence. We obliged the fire marshal's concerns by using fusible links at the ends of the stainless steel supports attaching the fabric panels. In the event that a fire might occur, the links would burn first and drop the panels avoiding any smoke hazard or ventilation interference. The entire piece was designed to clear the sensors in place. The fabric is treated to pass code requirements and is designed so that dust does not collect. [A]

To further enhance the entry lobby seating area, I worked with another artist on two twelve-foot murals for recesses left in the lobby wall by the removal of showcases. Rather than the predictable local or regional landscape theme, a more personal concept developed. Empty chairs in a lush garden welcome visitors and invite them to pull up a chair and sit down (in the lobby). The murals are full of engaging details to delight and distract. [B]

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