The renovation of a sculpture garden at the Smithsonian Hirshhorn Museum in Washington has received planning approval.
The redevelopment, designed by Japanese Hiroshi Sugimoto in 2019, had been subject to a federal review process.
The garden, which welcomes a million visitors a year, will connect the 4-acre plaza surrounding the museum with the National Mall’s 1.5-acre garden.
As a result of the review, the sculpture garden‘s north entrance will be expanded from 20ft to 60ft, with expanded ramp access. At the south side, an underground passageway will be reopened and the east garden will have a 50% increase in its sculptures. Plantings will also be increased to improve in shading and seating.
Melissa Chiu, Hirshhorn’s director, said: “We welcome these approvals, which have followed a robust public process that allowed us to hear and incorporate the views of so many who care deeply about the garden.
“The final design by Hiroshi Sugimoto, the renowned Japanese artist and architect, will enhance the experience of millions of Hirshhorn visitors in coming years.”
