In 2004, the Sioux City Public Museum was in the process of exploring available sites for expanding its exhibitions and programming when the relocation of a JC Penney store opened up a large building space in the heart of downtown Sioux City. After gathering community input, the city of Sioux City took possession of the building in 2006 for use as the museum’s new site.
BVH created an engaging main entrance that leads to a large two-story atrium in the southwest corner. Most of the south wall features a glass exterior through which artifacts and activities can be seen from outside, enlivening the downtown. With a re-landscaped corner plaza, this dramatic façade welcomes visitors to a large modern museum. At more than 55,000 square feet, the museum houses permanent and rotating exhibits, a large gallery, theatre, archives/research center, collections area, flexible classroom space, conference rooms, gift shop and offices.
