main building renovation

The first phase of comprehensive renovations for the Cape Ann Museum focused on the front portion of the complex.  Upgrades included building systems, gallery lighting and finishes, and an intimate gallery addition. The museum itself is an eclectic composition of several buildings, and designLAB worked closely with the trustees, director, exhibit designer, and consultants to carefully address challenges unique to each era of construction. A new entry lobby warmly greets guests and affords views into the galleries beyond.  The museum shop now opens onto the lobby, benefitting from better visibility and flow.  A disused balcony was converted into a light-filled display space for the fresnel lens.  The display of both temporary exhibitions and permanent collections, including the Fitz Henry Lane and Cape Ann Galleries, were refreshed with high-caliber lighting and finishes to create settings befitting the notable American Art displayed. The first phase of museum renovations was completed in June, 2014.

The Cape Ann Museum is underway on the second phase of renovations to its Downtown Campus.  The balance of the museum will be upgraded to the standards established in the first phase of renovations.  Project highlights include: 

• The expansion of world-class gallery spaces — with the addition and renovation of over 7,700 square feet of display areas — will bring stories to life in new ways.

• The reimagined Fisheries galleries, Research Center & Archives and CAM Studio spaces will provide inviting, interactive destinations, with greater interconnectivity and intuitive access between all Museum areas.

• The central atrium will be maintained but reconfigured, including the relocation of Walker Hancock’s Pennsylvania Railroad War Memorial sculpture to greet visitors as they reach the heart of the Museum.

• Realignment of doorways and openings throughout the facility will further improve views between destinations and encourage exploration. A rear stair will be converted from private to public to create an intuitive loop in the rear gallery sequence and better flow to the Research Center & Archives and CAM Studio. 

• A full renovation of security and climate control interior systems, as well as the exterior enclosure, will enable top-tier gallery environments and display surfaces. 

The museum anticipates reopening in spring of 2026.