Wesley Gallery at Chinati Foundation | Adaptive Reuse | Ford, Powell & Carson

FPC transformed a deteriorated U.S. Cavalry horse stable dating to 1919 into a permanent gallery for the work of artist John Wesley. Located within the Chinati Foundation’s collection of site-specific installations, the gallery houses a concentrated retrospective of Wesley’s paintings, works on paper, and prints.

Built of unreinforced concrete and adobe block, the abandoned stable was in an unstable condition with a failing roof structure. FPC stabilized the building while retaining its mass walls and essential character, creating a quiet setting for the artwork.

before and after of the front entry to the gallery.

Respecting the historic footprint, the building is divided into four quads, each with a single rotating door. One quad is the entry, which opens into the larger three quad space. The glass doors provide light into the gallery and a simple porch covers the doors, providing shade and sitting areas. A ventilated attic and carefully controlled daylight allow the gallery to operate without energy for heating, cooling, or artificial lighting. The overall composition is consistent with the idea that the structure is supportive to the art and does not detract from the visitor's experience of art in the landscape.

Before and after of the gallery space.

Awards & Recognition

Texas Society of Architects, Design Award, 2006

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Wesley Gallery - The Chinati Foundation