Opening in Houston, Texas is the Menil Drawing Institute — a cultural building that will make available "modern and contemporary drawings from the private collection of John and Dominique de Menil" to the public. Designed and built by American architectural firm Johnston Marklee, the structure boasts a stylishly angular construction that instills an abstract sense.
Moreover, the design of the Menil Drawing Institute has a feature that has proven to be incredibly popular in recent years. The cultural building is adorned with a multitude of courtyards that puncture its layout. These spaces are incredibly beneficial to concrete structures as they offer a harmonious break from the consistency of the material, allowing an influx of light to come in and access to some vegetation.
Photo Credits: Richard Barnes
White Contemporary Cultural Buildings
Johnston Marklee's Menil Drawing Institute Boasts Courtyards
Trend Themes
1. Courtyard-centric Buildings - Architects can consider incorporating courtyards into the design of their buildings for added aesthetic and environmental benefits.
2. Modern and Contemporary Drawing Exhibitions - Businesses in the art world can create contemporary drawing exhibits that feature both modern and older pieces to attract a wider audience.
3. Abstract Architectural Design - Architects can embrace abstract design to create unique and memorable buildings that stand out from the norm.
Industry Implications
1. Architecture - Architects can take advantage of the popularity of courtyard-centric buildings and abstract design to create memorable, yet functional structures.
2. Art - Art galleries can showcase both modern and contemporary drawings to attract a diverse audience, increasing their revenue in the process.
3. Culture - Cultural institutions can embrace modern and contemporary art to attract younger audiences and keep up with changing tastes in the art world.