Petersen Museum’s renovation debuts ‘racy’ first phase

| June 4, 2015 | 0 Comments
CRANES LOWER the ribbons, as seen from the rooftop deck. May Co. is across Wilshire.

BIRD’S-EYE view shows cranes lowering the stainless-steel “ribbons.”  May Co. is visible across Wilshire Blvd.

Petersen Automotive Museum officials unveiled a racy exterior as the first phase of a $125 million renovation at the site at 6060 Wilshire Blvd.

Featured are 308 stainless-steel “ribbons” that wrap around a red-painted building to evoke an image of speed.

“This is a landmark, and it was a big step. Car guys are like that. We make big bold moves, and we hope for the best,” Bruce Meyer, museum vice chairman, said at the rooftop event last month.

The museum is true to founder Robert Petersen’s mission to showcase the automotive culture and the city’s history in car design. “This is so important for the future of Los Angeles,” said Councilman Tom LaBonge.

Architects Gene Kohn and Trent Tesch explained LED lights will illuminate the building with continuous strips at the top and bottom of the building. Colors and brightness will be adjusted during events.

“The building is going to be very animated,” said Tesch. The ribbons’ “angel hair” stainless-steel finish will reflect and diffuse daytime light so it’s not so bright, said Anthony Birchler, VP of engeinneering. The interior will be updated without any major architectural changes.

The renovated museum is scheduled to open by the end of the year.

 

VIEW FROM Wilshire shows the stainless-steel ribbons.

VIEW FROM Wilshire shows the stainless-steel ribbons.

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