Architectural & Exhibit Master Plan Programming · PDF fileANF-Memphis CCA-Boston Pink Palace Master Plan 1/31/2012 TABLE OF CONTENTS Executive Summary 1. Introduction and Building

Architectural & Exhibit Master Plan Programming Phase

for the Pink Palace Museum

Memphis Tennessee

January 2012

Prepared By

Askew Nixon Ferguson Architects Christopher Chadbourne & Associates

Tom Robison & Associates OGCB, INC.

ANF-Memphis CCA-Boston Pink Palace Master Plan 1/31/2012

‘We shape our buildings and afterwards they shape us.’ Sir Winston Churchill ‘Make no little plans as they have no magic to stir men’s blood.’ Daniel Burnham ‘A museum is a place where one should lose one's ’head.’ HHHHHRenzo PianoHHHHH Pink Palace Mission:

The Pink Palace Family of Museums inspires people to learn how history, science, technology and nature shape the Mid-South. Through rich collections, thought-provoking exhibitions, and engaging programs, we encourage our diverse community to reflect on the past, understand the present and influence the future.


TABLE OF CONTENTS Executive Summary

1. Introduction and Building History 1 2. Alignment with the Museum’s Strategic Plan 2007-2012 2 3. Architectural Program 5 4. Building and Site Study at 3050 Central Avenue 5 5. Conceptual Design Alternates Evaluations and Cost Estimates 8 6. Exhibit Space Recap 21 7. Conclusions 21

Introduction 1. Planning and Design Methodology 23 2. Organization of the Architectural and Exhibit Master Plan Report 24

Architectural Program

1. Design Goals and Objectives (Qualitative) 25 2. Priorities and Phases of Completion 25 3. Elements of Program 26 4. Design Goals and Building Spaces (Quantitative) 28 5. Building Spaces’ Descriptions and Functions 28 6. Building Spaces’ Functional Relationships and Rationales for 29

Locations and Space Relationships

Analysis of Existing Site and Building Spaces 1. History 31 2. Analysis of Site 33 3. Analysis of Building 35 4. Analysis of the Building’s Functions 40

Entrance 40 Lobby 42 Exhibits 44 Planetarium 47 Education 48 Family Audience 48 Collections Storage 49 Special Events/Rentals 50 Administrative 51 Guest Services 51 Retail 52 Food Services 53 Public Amenities 53 Structural 54 HVAC 61 Fire Protection 66 Plumbing 67 Electrical 70


Lighting 72 Fire Alarm 72 Security 73 Telecommunications 74 Public Address 74 Audiovisual 74 Acoustics 74 Building Codes - Earthquake Issues 75 Signage: Honorific, Way-finding, Informational 75 Americans with Disabilities Act Compliance 75

Conceptual Design Alternatives

1. “The Museum in its Educational and Societal Context 76 Preliminary Public Engagement” Report

2. Site Design Alternatives and Phases 89 3. Building Design Alternatives and Phases 90 4. Criteria for Evaluation of Schemes 91 5. Evaluation Matrix 92 6. Conclusions 94

Cost Estimate Summary 1. Alternatives, Phasing and Estimated Costs 96

Construction Phasing Plan

1. Phase One 98 2. Phase Two 98 3. Phase Three 98

A Last Word On Identity 99

Appendices

A Mechanical, Plumbing and Electrical Report B Structural Report C Probable Cost Estimates D References Related to Master Plan Report

ANF-Memphis CCA-Boston Pink Palace Master Plan Programming Phase 1/31/2012 1

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY 1. Introduction and Building History

The Pink Palace Family of Museums has a remarkable and enviable set of

assets. Through its museum, events spaces, Sharpe Planetarium, Crew Training

International IMAX® Theater, Lichterman Nature Center and its other historic

and natural sites, the institution has an array of cultural and educational

facilities and learning opportunities. It is currently faced with the need to

address the many financial and logistical issues critical to its long-term

sustainability and public value. From this perspective, its many assets are both

strengths and challenges.

Many museums experience

organic growth during their

institutional histories. They

add to collections as a result

of a donor or curator’s strong

interest or expertise. They

acquire objects and buildings

through special gifts or in

recognition of preservation

needs. They offer new exhibits and programs to meet changing regional and

professional needs. While all of these actions are important as they occur,

they may result in a scattered focus that periodically requires new thinking. The

Pink Palace has responded to a variety of opportunities over the years, and

now faces the challenge of creating a fresh identity. The museum has an

exciting opportunity to create a thematically unique niche in the cultural

community of Memphis and the Mid-South. These notes address some of

those opportunities and re-emphasize the need to build for the future while

establishing relevance and meaning with the core audiences.

It is telling that in discussion with both board and staff, some museum personnel

described the museum as a history museum, while others saw it as a science or

natural history museum. The strategic plan refers to the museum as three

museums in one, noting the distinct collections and multiple exhibit topics.


Although it can be advantageous to have people relate to the content of a

museum in different ways, it can also create confusion. Audience research

suggests there is greater strength in establishing a well-defined identity. Such an

identity would benefit from defining overarching interpretive directions to unify

the varied subject matter of the museum and create meaningful intersections

between them.FFFFF

1FFFFF Undertaking this exercise is a highly valuable starting point to

the subsequent redesign of exhibitions.

2. Alignment with the Museum’s Strategic Plan 2007

In 2005, the Pink Palace engaged the planning firm of Museum Management

Consultants, San Francisco, to work closely with the Museum Core Planning

Committee and create a Strategic Plan for the period 2007 through 2012.

Funded by the City of Memphis and approved by the Museum’s non-profit

Board this Strategic Plan resulted in a comprehensive plan which will guide the

museum for many years. The plan included 7 key goals required to achieve a

transformation of the Pink Palace Museum. This Master Plan aligns with the

Capital Strategic Plan of 2007-2012 in the following ways:

Goal 1 Create a compelling visitor experience: Of utmost importance is the

museum’s goal of surprising and delighting visitors. An entry ticket is a promise.

The visitor’s experience must be memorable, rewarding and fulfilling. Their

experience should cause them to return repeatedly to explore new areas, see

new exhibits and be entertained and enlightened. This goal has been in the

forefront of all our thinking and planning. This goal has led our team to plan for

a new main entrance, a reorganization and update of all exhibit areas,

improvement and expansion of visitor services and public areas and upgrades

to meet the needs of a diverse group of visitors from school children, with the

inclusion of a student orientation area, to those with special needs. With so

many entertainment options in the world at large we must make a visit to the

Pink rewarding enough to compel visitors to return soon.

1 Beverly Shepherd, Institute of Learning Innovation. UUUUAppendix D-References Related to Master Plan ReportUU (Internal Email), July 2, 2011


Goal 2 Restructure the collections to better support the Museum mission and

visitor experience: The museum has a valuable set of exhibition assets, but

many of these are either in outdated exhibit settings or not displayed in

meaningful sequence. This Master Plan addresses the collections issue and

attempts to update not only the way that the museum’s artifacts are viewed

but to rearrange them into a meaningful, thematic and sequential story.

Of particular note is the consolidation of the collections area with access to

the loading dock and other support areas. In addition, our planning moves the

location of the temporary exhibit area so that it is closer to a loading dock and

other exhibit support services. Lastly, we propose that the Pink Palace Mansion

become the showcase for the unique treasures of the PPFM, including the

Clyde Parke Circus, the Piggly Wiggly store and other iconic exhibits.

Goal 3 Develop a financial model that allows for growth, prosperity, and a

sustainable operating capacity: Today’s museum is a delicate mix of exhibit,

programming and public gathering spaces.

Public spaces have been rearranged and enlarged in this plan to allow for

simultaneous special events ranging from weddings to corporate parties.

Additional earned income for the PPFM must be found from new sources as

the contribution of the City continues to remain flat. With that in mind, this

Master Plan focuses on how to increase special events revenue through the

creation of new exterior public spaces, enhanced retail offerings, new dining

facilities, and supporting kitchens, among additional changes. At the same

time, we have been mindful of the museum’s educational mission, so the

public spaces include iconic exhibits which will educate, inspire and excite

visitors. These spaces should remain flexible enough to use for temporary

exhibits and other uses when needed. The long-term prosperity of the

museum may well depend on how successful we are at enabling the

museum to attract new streams of revenue and to remain meaningful to our

visitors.


Goal 4 Cultivate audiences and deepen community awareness: One test for

any great museum is how much it is used by the public. Well conceived, easily

accessed gathering areas inside the museum building are critical to this

mission. New exhibit areas should have space dedicated to small public

gatherings, perhaps to address something topical or explore a particular

historical aspect of the containing exhibit. Large gathering spaces, including

the IMAX® Theater, the new Planetarium, the Mansion Ballroom and the Club

Room will be upgraded and made more accessible to outside community

gatherings.

Goal 5 Focus operations at the Pink Palace and Lichterman: This master plan

addresses the need to reorganize some administrative offices, create new

office space, and to enlarge and improve the call center, the Friends of the

Pink Palace offices, the collection areas and exhibit support areas.

Goal 6 Build a highly motivated team of employees and volunteers with the

appropriate skill sets to achieve the mission: One key to the motivation of

employees and volunteers is to provide them with the space needed to

accomplish their objectives. New staff offices, conference room, offices for

the Friends of the Pink Palace and other support areas will be improved as part

of this plan. A new enlarged call center with windows cannot help but

increase customer friendliness.

Goal 7 Strengthen the ability of the Board of Trustees to govern PPFM in

cooperation with the City of Memphis: By increasing the areas available for

special events, this plan encourages new streams of income for the Pink

Palace and allows the Board increased resources to govern PPFM in

cooperation with the City of Memphis. The Board will have new opportunities

for income growth from the public with flexible special event spaces and

meeting areas. These spaces will include iconic exhibits so that they also

advance the museum’s mission. In addition, cost estimates for all work,

fundraising materials and a phasing plan will enhance the Board’s ability to

steer this process to a successful conclusion. The overall improvement in the


quality of the visitor experience will inspire and empower the Board’s work and

take it to new levels.

3. Architectural Program

The Master Plan is divided into two important parts: Programming and

Schematic Design (Exhibits). This report is the culmination of the Programming

Phase, and describes the priorities and phases as outlined in this report.

Schematic Design Phase, will be a more complete and detailed analysis of one

of the four alternate schemes presented as part of this report. In particular, the

Schematic Design Phase (Exhibits) will give definition to the exhibit areas,

exhibit adjacencies and early exhibit layouts.

4. Building and Site Study at 3050 Central Avenue

The Pink Palace Museum is located in a residential neighborhood near the

geographical center of the City of Memphis. This majestic 9.7 acre site is

bounded on all four sides by roadways: Central Avenue to the south, Lafayette

Street to the east, Tilton to the west and East Goodwyn/Lafayette Place to the

north. Both Lafayette Street (as it intersects with Poplar Avenue) and Central

Avenue connect the museum to the city via heavily traveled east-west

roadways. The mansion is located in the far northern portion of the site and is

fronted by a wide and relatively flat lawn area facing Central Avenue. Below

this lawn is the underground IMAX® Theater and educational facilities. The

mansion is the primary "face" of the property and gives the facility its name.

The exhibit wing of the museum is on the east side of the mansion, facing

Lafayette Street, and contains the main entrance for the facility.

At almost 160,000 square feet, the Pink Palace is one of the largest facilities of

its kind in the southeast. The facility is comprised of three major buildings, the

mansion (1930), the exhibit wing (1977 & 1992) and the underground IMAX®

Theater and educational facilities (1996), added in intervals over sixty-six years.

The original functions of these buildings vary from private residence to museum

space.


The first and most prominent building is the mansion (locally known as the Pink

Palace). Originally constructed as a private residence for Clarence Saunders,

this building was designed by Hubert McGee and sheathed in pink Georgia

marble. The main floor is primarily used as a special events space, with some

specialized exhibits in the east wing. The second floor of the mansion serves a

back-of-house capacity, housing storage, offices for the Friends of the Pink

Palace and a geological collections laboratory.

The second major building added to the facility was a wing on the east side of

the mansion. This angular, windowless

building sheathed in a beige-colored

masonry was built in 1977. This space was

constructed specifically to house museum

facilities and is the primary exhibit building

on campus. In 1992, the space between

the exhibit wing and the mansion was in-

filled with a two-story addition to create

the lobby and vertical circulation space.

The additions to the north side added

work shops and administration spaces.

The east wing houses the majority of the facility’s public spaces including most

of the Museum’s exhibition floor space, the Planetarium, restaurant, entrance

and lobby, as well as other back-of-house functions such as administrative

offices and collections storage.

An underground building is the final component to the campus. In 1996,

facilities opened beneath the front lawn of the mansion. These new facilities

house the IMAX® Theater and educational spaces as well as administration

areas and event support space.

In this report, each area/ system of the museum has been carefully analyzed to

determine its serviceability and appropriateness for any future expansion or

reconfiguration.

1992 addition with original mansion on the left and 1977 brick façade on the right.


1992 Addition

1977 Addition

Museum Entrance

1930 Mansion

1992 Addition

Southwest lawn

Gated Public Entry

Staff Parking

Front Lawn & 1996 Underground IMAX & education

Parking

Gated Staff Entry

Aerial Site Plan


5. Conceptual Design Alternates Evaluation and Cost Estimates

An evaluation of 24 key issues for each of the four alternates, including E, a

variation on Alternate D was made to determine a numerical score for each of

these alternates. This matrix includes issues from arrival to cost of construction.

The full matrix can be viewed in the Conceptual Design Alternatives section.

Summary of Alternate Evaluation Matrix

Pink Palace Master Plan Programming Phase

Alternates Goal/ Objective B C D E

24 Goals/ Objectives evaluated using a numerical system: 5 - Excellent, 4 - Good 3 - Acceptable, 2 - needs improvement 73 100 110 114

The probable cost of construction of the Conceptual Design Alternatives,

shown below, includes contractor overhead and profit, general conditions,

contingencies, permitting and bonding.

Cost Comparison Chart Master Plan Programming Phase

Alternate

B C D E

Building $2,849,776 $4,489,125 $5,213,444 $5,438,444

COM Requirements $569,955 $897,825 $1,042,698 $1,087,688

Exhibits $17,363,780 $16,386,460 $12,880,700 $12,880,700

Grand Total $20,783,511 $21,773,410 $19,136,842 $19,406,832

Alternate E includes the addition of stairs / elevator on the north wall of the

mansion, allowing easy public access to all floors and in particular the exhibits

area on the upper floor. A sum of $269,990 would be required to make this

change.

An important positive note about the prospect for completing this plan is that

the City of Memphis has agreed to match private funding dollar for dollar.


Scheme B – First Floor Plan

Club Room

Renovated Restaurant

Kitchen

Gift Shop

Ticketing

Lobby

Membership

School Gathering

M W

Renovated Collections

Exhibit I

Existing Entryl Doors

Collections Exhibit Prep


Scheme B – Second Floor Plan

Mansion Catering Kitchen

Mansion Catering Staging

Mansion Ballroom

Mansion Lobby

Exhibit II

Exhibit III

Mezzanine

Remove existing stairs and floor existing opening

Administration

Collections

Mansion Theatre

Dunavant Room / Event

Mansion Exhibit

Mansion Exhibit East


Scheme B – Third Floor Plan

Call Ctr Conf.

Friends

Future Exhibit

Conf.

Roof

Roof

Dressing Rm


Scheme C – First Floor Plan

Café Receiving, Storage & Prep

Kitchen

New Dumbwaiter

Club Room

Collections

Collections Catering Kitchen

Membership & Ticketing

Office Planetarium

Lobby

Ticketing

2 storey space

Gift Shop

School Gathering /

Event

Gift Shop Storage

Exhibit I

Lobby

Collections

Relocated Entry Doors

School Entry

Exhibit Prep


Scheme C – Second Floor Plan

Café Kitchen

Café Dining Rm

Catering Staging / Storage

Outdoor Dining

Dunavant Room / Dining

New Elev & Stairs to Club

Room

Mansion Ballroom

Mansion Lobby

Mansion Exhibit


Mezzanine

Exhibit IV

Exhibit III

Exhibit II

New Entry

Storage

Mech.

Mech.

Administration

Collections

Mansion Theatre


Scheme C –Third Floor Plan

Exhibit

New Elev

Storage

Conf.

Call Ctr

Dressing Rm

Friends

Conf.

Admin. Break Rm

Roof

Roof


Scheme D – First Floor Plan

Café Receiving & Prep Kitchen

Club Room

New Dumbwaiter


Exhibit Prep

Planetarium Lobby

Circulation Lobby

Loading Dock

Exhibit I

Focal Point Artifact

New Stairs

Dock Staging

M W

School Gathering /

Events Entrance

Lobby 2 storey space

Ticketing

Membership

Lower Plaza

Plaza

Artifact

Artifact

Lawn

Artifact

Existing Collections

Gift Shop

Gift Shop Storage



Scheme D – Second Floor Plan

Café Kitchen

Café Dining Rm


Outdoor Dining


Mansion Ballroom

Mansion Lobby

Mansion Exhibit


Mezzanine

Administration

Collections

Mansion Theatre

Exhibit IV

Exhibit III

Exhibit II

New Entry

Mech.

Mech.

Open to Lobby below

Open to below


Scheme D – Third Floor Plan

Call Ctr

Conf.

Friends

Exhibits

Conf.

Roof

Roof

Dressing Rm

Glass Box Expansion over new Lobby with light refracting sculpture


Scheme E – First Floor Plan


Club Room

New Dumbwaiter

Collections

Catering Kitchen

Exhibit Prep

Planetarium Lobby

Circulation Lobby

Loading Dock

Exhibit I

New Stairs

Dock Staging

M W

School Gathering /

Events Entrance


Ticketing

Membership

Lower Plaza

Plaza

Artifact

Artifact

Lawn

Artifact


Gift Shop

Gift Shop Storage



Scheme E – Second Floor Plan

Café Kitchen

Café Dining Rm


Outdoor Dining



Room

Mansion Ballroom

Mansion Lobby

Mansion Exhibit


Mansion Theatre

Mezzanine

Administration

Collections

Exhibit IV

Exhibit III

Exhibit II

New Entry

Mech.

Mech.

Open to Lobby below

Open to below


Scheme E – Third Floor Plan

Exhibit

New Elev

Storage

Conf.

Call Ctr

Dressing Rm

Friends

Conf.

Admin. Break Rm

Roof

Roof


6. Exhibit Space Recap

The total amount of exhibit area is of particular concern to any museum. As

seen in the Exhibit Comparison Chart below, very little difference exists

between the four alternates if a value of .333 is placed on all public gathering

/exhibit areas (non-restricted) as well as the exterior plaza areas. These areas

would contain exhibits that are able to withstand close interaction with the

general public. They also would be essential to the very important task of

setting visitors’ expectations for a compelling museum experience. They will

also further the Museum’s interpretive goals.

Looked at another way, it is essential to have confidence that the chosen plan

has ample exhibit space to tell the stories the museum wants to tell. The

museum’s professional staff believes that all the alternatives have enough

exhibit space to do that.

Exhibit Comparison Chart Master Plan Programming Phase Alternate Exhibit Areas Square Feet B C D E Exhibit Area – Restricted 39,925 40,259 34,197 34,197 Exhibit Area - Non Restricted @ .333 2,149 2,521 3,831 3,831 Exhibit Area Exterior - Main entry hall 500 600 3,600 3,600

Grand Total 42,574 43,380 41,628 41,628 Non Restricted & Exterior Exhibit Area = 1/3 of actual area

7. Conclusions

Based on the comparison of key issues met, cost, and total exhibit space the

obvious conclusion is that Alternate B is the weakest of the four alternates and

would resolve only a few of the goals/objectives outlined in this report.

Alternate C, the most expensive of the four, is a much better solution than

Alternate B but still falls short of optimum especially since the main entry is still

located on the east side of the museum. With few exceptions, Alternate D or E

is clearly the best of the four alternates and finally resolves several key issues:


• An easily identified Main Entry hall visible from Central Avenue, a main

road

• All collection areas now contiguous with back of the house access

• A dedicated loading dock for the temporary exhibit area with

appropriate floor load capability

• Permanent exhibits will be contiguous (same floor)

• A new dining area with outdoor seating

• The upper level of the mansion must be accessible during events

• The lowest cost of construction

An improvement to Alternate E would be to add the elevator/ stair on the east

side of mansion along with the layout suggested for the upper level of the

mansion. This new Alternate E would be approximately $269,990 more

expensive than Alternate D (see cost estimates below) but its impact would be

great by allowing visitors to easily access the Club room by stairway on the

lower level and the upper floor and rotunda of the mansion, both of which are

currently inaccessible or accessible only with difficulty from the mansion main

floor.

Clearly Alternate E is the optimum choice for further study in the next phase of

this Master Plan but by developing the four alternates, we have explored many

‘what-if’ scenarios and the design team should be sure that all good ideas

evidenced in each of these alternates finds its way, whenever possible, into the

final scheme.


INTRODUCTION

1. Planning and Design Methodology

After a lengthy selection process in late 2009 and early 2010, the design team

of Askew Nixon Ferguson Architects (ANF), Memphis, and Christopher

Chadbourne Associates (CCA), Boston, was chosen to complete the Master

Plan Programming in two parts:

• Part 1: Programming

• Part 2: Schematic Design (Exhibits)

This report is the culmination of Part 1 (Programming) and describes the

progress made to date. Part 2 (Schematic Design - Exhibits) will be issued as a

more complete and detailed analysis of one of the four alternate schemes

presented as part of this report. In particular, the Schematic Design phase will

give definition to the exhibit areas, exhibit adjacencies and early exhibit

layouts.

The team of ANF and CCA, joined by OGCB Engineers, Memphis, and Tom

Robison and Associates, Memphis, has completed this report by using the

following methodology:

• Kickoff Team Meeting with goals and objectives defined

• Extensive analysis/ measuring of the existing facility

• Site visits to understand existing systems, latent conditions, and

opportunities for change

• Interviews with museum staff, Board of Directors, Museum Director, and

other key personnel

• Exploration of many alternative ideas and schemes, with the goal of

narrowing the number down to four

• Frequent meetings with the Museum Staff, COM and Parks to question

assumptions, review proposals and refine alternatives

• Visits to the Museum with two contractors to cost out the four final

alternatives

• Presentation of the final four alternative to the Board of Directors for

review and comment


2. Organization of the Architectural and Exhibit Master Plan Report

This report is organized into several sections for clarity and to facilitate the

understanding of the basic ideas presented:

• Architectural Program: A statement of the design goals and objectives

both qualitatively and quantitatively. This section will also include

building spaces and function as well as a rationale for the final

alternative schemes.

• Analysis of Existing Site and Building Spaces: An analysis of the existing

building, site, building systems, collections and exhibits, as well as

potential code issues and concerns.

• Conceptual Design Alternatives: Concentrating on the four alternate

schemes, this section explores site consequences, offers a matrix for

evaluation of these schemes and presents conclusions.

• Cost Estimate Summary: Estimated costs for each of the four alternates

as well as phasing is examined in this section.


ARCHITECTURAL PROGRAM

1. Design Goals and Objectives (Qualitative)

The qualitative design goals and objectives for the renovation/ reorganization

of the Pink Palace are as follows:

• Create a compelling visitor experience

• Make the museum more child-friendly

• Increase membership and repeat visits to the museum

• Reorganize/ revitalize the permanent exhibits as described in the

Interpretive Narrative

• Enlarge and enhance visitor services: dining, special event areas,

student orientation space, public meeting areas, membership, ticketing,

toilets, etc.

• Improve way finding: Make the main entry easy to find and improve

horizontal and vertical circulation

• Improve interaction with school groups: entry hall, gather, food service

• Consolidate museum Collections, work and storage area into one area

with dock access

• Resolve floor loading and easy dock access for the temporary exhibit

area if this exhibit space is moved to the first floor

• Allow easy public access to all levels of the mansion

• Find a location for the Pink Palace’s iconic exhibits which may not fit into

the Interpretive Narrative.

• Create a gathering area for the Planetarium

• Create exhibits about the mansion and the Pink Palace‘s collection of

treasured artifacts which relate more to the Museum’s history and

visitor’s memories than they do to the new Interpretive Narrative.

2. Priorities and Phases of Completion

The Master Plan is divided into two important parts: Programming and

Schematic Design-Exhibits. This report is the culmination of Part 1,


Programming, and describes the priorities and phases below. Part 2,

Schematic Design-Exhibits, will be a more complete and detailed analysis of

one of the four alternate schemes presented as part of this report. In

particular, the Schematic Design phase will give definition to the exhibit areas,

exhibit adjacencies and early exhibit layouts.

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1. Kickoff Team Meeting with goals and objectives defined

2. Extensive analysis/ measuring of the existing facility

3. Site visits to understand existing systems, latent conditions and

opportunities for change

4. Interviews with museum staff, Board of Directors, Museum Director and

other key personnel

5. Exploration of many alternative ideas and schemes, with the goal of

narrowing the number down to four

6. Frequent meetings with the Museum Staff, COM and Parks to question

assumptions, review proposals and refine alternatives

7. Visits to the Museum with two contractors to cost out the four final

alternatives

8. Presentation of the final four alternative to the Board of Directors for

review and comment

3. Elements of Program

The primary areas of the existing Museum, their size, description and adjacency

/ functional needs are shown below:


Program Elements Existing Areas by Function, Total Area, Description and Adjacency/ Functional Needs Exist Occupancy/

Type Area SF Description Adjacency/ Functional Needs Administration 14,728 Offices, conference room, clerical,

circulation, staff toilets, break room, Admin storage, kitchen for staff

Reorganization of space needed

Building Services 13,814 Mechanical rooms, electrical room,

pump rooms, shaftways, elevator, equipment rooms, etc.

Rework as needed. Most should remain as is

Circulation 16,859 Back of house circulation, service

corridors, etc Reconfigure as needed

Collections 10,660 Collections of artifacts and

specimens which support the exhibits, compact storage

Consolidate/ access to loading dock

Education 7,611 All classrooms, discovery areas, etc Increase if possible Exhibit Area 45,875 All Exhibit areas including temporary

exhibit, mansion ground floor, and mezzanine in exhibit bldg.

Reorganize, update, make contiguous, locate temporary gallery to ground floor with adjacent access to loading dock

Exhibit Support 6,484 Exhibit repair, preparation, shops Friends of the Pink Palace

1,116 Offices/ conf room for Friends Renovation/ reorganization needed

Future Expansion 1,839 Unassigned area Reconfigure and Reuse Gift Shop 3,129 Gift Shop and Gift Shop Storage Enlarge / position near main entry Planetarium 4,673 Planetarium and upper level Enlarge gathering area Restaurant 1,504 Restaurant and kitchen Enlarge/ Renovate/ Relocate Visitor Services 22,474 Public entry, gathering areas, public

event areas, public circulation, toilets, escalators, ballroom, theater

Enlarge for Public Event Space Reconfigure

Event Support 1,151 Back of house for special events Enlarge/ provide warming kitchen

IMAX® Theater 6,977 IMAX® Theater and control booths

Grand Total 158,894 SF


4. Design Goals and Building Spaces (Quantitative)

The quantitative design goals and objectives for the renovation/ reorganization

of the Pink Palace are as follow.

• Increase the number of visitors to the museum

• Increase the size of the gift shop

• Increase the area to be used for special events

• Increase the area near the main entry for unloading/ loading and

student orientation

• Addition of a student orientation area

• Increase the size of the kitchens available for special events

5. Building Spaces’ Descriptions, Size and Adjacency Requirements

After extensive on-site verification, our team has determined the size/ function

of the existing museum spaces to be:


Legend Critical Desirable


Legend Critical Desirable


ANALYSIS OF EXISTING SITE AND BUILDING SPACES

1. History

Originally constructed as a showplace residence for local grocery store

magnate Clarence Saunders, the Memphis Pink Palace Museum has been

altered and enhanced many times during its eighty-eight year history.

Construction on the mansion, now known as the Pink Palace for its pink

Georgian marble exterior, begun in 1922. In 1923, ownership of the unfinished

mansion and its surrounding land passed to private developers. By 1926 the

still-unfinished mansion and its front lawn had been donated to the City of

Memphis to be used as a museum.

The Memphis Museum of Natural History and Industrial Arts was opened in the

mansion in 1930. Six years later in 1936, the museum name was shortened

simply to the Memphis Museum. Over the next eighteen years, few major

changes were made to the facilities. In 1954, a twenty foot Planetarium dome

was added. This dome, attached to the mansion, housed the new Planetarium

and was equipped with a Spitz star projector. In 1967, thirty-seven years after it

originally opened, the museum changed its name once again to the Memphis

Pink Palace Museum, a name it continues to use today.

Over the years the museum has changed a great deal from the original

mansion to its current appearance. In 1974, the museum embarked on an

expansion plan which culminated in the opening of a new exhibit wing on the

east side of the mansion in 1977. The following year, a new Planetarium

opened within this new wing. In 1990, the museum began an extensive

renovation and expansion of their facilities, causing the museum to close in

1991 for construction. In 1992, when the museum reopened the public enjoyed

an expanded lobby with escalators and a changing exhibit area, while the

employee area grew to include a new wing containing administrative office

space, as well as laboratories and workshops. These new facilities were

followed in 1996 with the reopening to the public of the original Pink Palace

mansion, as well as the addition of an underground IMAX® Theater and


Education building. The museum capped off its first thirty-nine years with the

renovation of the Sharpe Planetarium in 1999. Since the opening of the IMAX®

Theater and Education wing in 1996, no major expansion or exhibit upgrade

has occurred.

A condensed timeline of the facilities history is below:

1922 Clarence Saunders’ mansion construction broke ground 1923 Saunders goes broke and loses his mansion 1926 Developer Helm Bruce donated the unfinished mansion and front

lawn to the City of Memphis. Designers were hired to develop exhibits for the mansion over the next three years.

1930 The Memphis Museum of Natural History and Industrial Arts opens 1936 The museum was renamed the Memphis Museum 1954 The Planetarium opens with a 20 foot dome and Spitz star projector 1968 The Memphis Museum name was changed to the Memphis Pink

Palace Museum 1974 Design started for the new museum wing 1977 New exhibits wing opens 1978 New planetarium opens 1991 Museum closes for renovation and construction 1992 Expanded changing exhibit area and new wing opens 1996 Underground IMAX® Theater and Educational building opens; Pink

Palace Mansion re-opens to public 1999 Sharpe Planetarium renovation completed


2. Analysis of Site

The Pink Palace Museum is located in a residential neighborhood near the

geographical center of the City of Memphis. This majestic 9.7 acre site is

bounded on all four sides by roadways: Central Avenue to the south, Lafayette

Street to the east, Tilton to the west and East Goodwyn/Lafayette Place to the

north. Both Lafayette Street (as it intersects with Poplar Avenue) and Central

Avenue connect the museum to the city via heavily traveled east-west

roadways. In contrast, east Goodwyn/Lafayette Place are public roads that

service the surrounding neighborhood, while Tilton is closed to public access.

The mansion is located in the far northern portion of the site and is fronted by a

wide and relatively flat lawn area facing Central Avenue. Below this lawn is

the underground IMAX® Theater and Educational facility. The mansion is the

primary "face" of the property and gives the facility its name. The exhibit wing

of the Museum is on the east side of the mansion, facing Lafayette Street, and

contains the main entrance for the facility. In addition to the main lawn in front

of the mansion, a smaller lawn on the southwest corner of the site provides

visitors with a few picnic tables. These tables are well shaded by mature trees

and provide school groups an area for lunch breaks.

Vehicles enter the property from Central Avenue and Lafayette Street. The

public enters the property from Central Avenue, passing a currently unmanned

guardhouse at the entrance gates. Primary public parking is located in the

east and southeast portions of the property. Some overflow parking spaces

exist along the west side of the mansion. Employees access the property

through automatic gates on Lafayette Street. Employee parking is located on

the north side of the property, near the above-ground loading docks and

employee building entrance. An underground loading dock is located on the

west side of the front lawn and accessed via a ramp. This dock services both

the IMAX® Theater and Educational facility.


1992 Addition

1977 Addition

Museum Entrance

1930 Mansion

1992 Addition

Southwest lawn

Gated Public Entryl

Staff Parking

Front Lawn & 1996 Underground

IMAX® & education

Parking

Gated Staff Entry

Aerial Site Plan


3. Analysis of Building

At almost 160,000 square feet, the Pink Palace is one of the largest facilities of

its kind in the southeast. The facility is comprised of three major buildings, the

mansion (1930), the Exhibit wing (1977 & 1992) and the underground IMAX®

Theater and educational facilities (1996), added in intervals over sixty-six years.

The original functions of these buildings vary from private residence to museum

space.

The first and most prominent building is the mansion (locally known as the Pink

Palace). Originally constructed as a private residence for Clarence Saunders,

this building was designed by Hubert McGee and sheathed in pink Georgian

marble. The cast-in-place and wooden structure was created in a

"Romanesque American Rambling Style as described by McGee. " 1 Eugene J

Johnson and Robert D Russell, Jr. “Memphis-An Architectural Guide”, 1990.

This two-story home, which includes a basement area, is the main face of the

museum facilities. The main floor is primarily used as a special events space,

with some specialized exhibits in the east wing. The second floor of the

mansion serves a back-of-house capacity, housing storage, offices for the

Friends of the Pink Palace and a geological collections laboratory. The

basement of the mansion is primarily crawl space with the exception the

northwest wing. The mansion's northwest basement wing houses a mechanical

room and a special events room. The basement's west wing contains an

abandoned animal processing

laboratory.

The second major building added to the

facility was a wing on the east side of the

mansion. This is angular, windowless

building sheathed in a beige-colored

masonry was built in 1977. This space was

constructed specifically to house

museum facilities and is the primary 1992 addition with original Mansion on the left and 1977 brick façade on the right.


exhibit building on campus. In 1992, the space between the exhibit wing and

the mansion was in-filled with a two-story addition to create the lobby and

vertical circulation space. The additions to the north side added work shops

and administration spaces. The 1992 building is wrapped in pink Georgian

marble and glass with white pre-cast trim. This addition's distinctive barrel vault

covers the escalator and stair lobby creating a double height area. In total

the east wing houses the bulk of the facilities' public spaces including most of

the museum’s exhibition floor space, the Planetarium, restaurant, entrance and

lobby, as well as other back of house functions such as administrative offices,

and collections storage.

An underground building is the final component to the campus. In 1996,

facilities opened beneath the front lawn of the mansion. These new facilities

house the IMAX® Theater and educational spaces as well as administration

areas and event support space.

The varied collection of buildings that make up the Pink Palace Museum

complex may have been designed for different uses, but each promotes the

mission of the Pink Palace Museum. Whether a visitor is watching a movie in

the IMAX® Theater, wandering through the natural history collections,

discovering the constellations in the Planetarium, or exploring the exhibit halls

within the mansion, there is something to inspire them.


Entrance

Planetarium

Natural History Exhibits

Natural History Collections

Lobby

Education

Club Room

Crawl Space

Cultural History Collections

Gift Shop

First Floor Plan Existing

IMAX® Theater


Cultural History Exhibits

Temporary Exhibits

Ballroom Theater

Mansion Lobby

Administration

Exhibit Hall

Second Floor Plan Existing

Mansion Entry Level


Friends of the Pink Palace

Roof

Third Floor Plan Existing


4. Analysis of Building Functions

Entrance

The entrance to the museum is located on the east side of the 1977 exhibit

wing , out of direct line-of-sight from the main Central Avenue visitor’s

entrance. The view of the entrance is further obscured by landscaping,

including beams and large trees. The entrance blends into the rest of the

building façade and is hard to identify, as there is a lack of visual hierarchy

between the entrance and the

rest of the 1977 addition. First-time

visitors have further difficulties

finding the entrance because it is

recessed beneath a second story

overhang.

The existing lobby is confusing,

and unwelcoming. Also, Museum

staff would like to redesign the

lobby to create a more dramatic

impression on the visitor. Currently

visitors have a difficult time

determining where to start their

visit, are unclear on what their

choices are, and experience too

much competing visual

information. Final design

decisions must serve visitors’

needs while allowing the lobby to

make the inspiring impression that prepares them for a great experience. The

redesign of the entry space should be conscious of the following visitor needs:

Museum’s hidden and nondescript entry

The openness of the escalator stair lobby creates a dramatic space.


• First Impressions: Establish a welcoming tone

• Identity: Signal the thrust of the museum’s focus

• Visitor Comfort: Provide logistical clarity (where to start, buy tickets,

organize the visit)

• Creating Excitement: Provide some dramatic visual elements

• Offer Orientation: Introduce the museum and answer such questions as,

what is this place? What can I expect to find here? What should I do

first?

A clean and clear visitor entry experience is

of primary importance for a good social

and learning experience. A separate

entrance, close to the main entrance, for

school groups would also reduce confusion

and provide an opportunity to meet their

unique logistical needs. Studies show

school visits to museums are most successful

with excellent logistical clarityFFFFF

2FFFFF, so that

valuable student time is not spent in

excessive space orientation.

For the casual visitor, today’s museum offers

many alternative routes. It is presently

difficult to sort them out or to be certain of

directions and wayfinding. The entry

experience should begin the process of identifying clear pathways to specific

components of the museum. This may be accomplished with signage, symbols,

verbal explanations, or floor maps, among others. The important thing is that

the layout and choices for the visit be well-defined, so that visitors can match

their expectations to their time and interests. It may be advisable to offer

2 Beverly Shepherd, Institute of Learning Innovation. UUUUAppendix D-References Related to Master Plan ReportUUUU (Internal Email), July 2, 2011

Arrival experiences generate a first impression and underpin the institution’s identity. The entry should signal comfort, excitement, and engagement. The Field Museum, Chicago


suggested routes for different types of visitors or for visitor groups with time

limitations.

The concerns with entry way finding are extended throughout the museum.

Currently, way finding within the museum itself is difficult. Part of creating a

compelling visitor experience is providing the kind of signage that avoids

confusion, offers direction and builds interest in what lies ahead. Visitor

orientation should be a critical part of the design process. Using advance

organizers and transitional devices would also be effective.

Attention to orientation and clear pathways is also significant in addressing

another visitor concern, often referred to as “museum fatigue.” Museums can

be overwhelming spaces, filled with so many different intriguing objects and

ideas. The experience often overwhelms visitors and provides too much visual

stimulation. Not only is it unnatural to read standing up (as in the case of

labels), but long periods of standing and walking also take their toll on visitor

energy and attention. Museums have learned that visitor comfort is an essential

part of a rewarding experience. Consequently, clear pathways and areas to

rest and reflect are ways of respecting visitors and encouraging longer stays.

Presently, the visitor flow through the museum does not allow for clear

transitions between galleries and topics and does not provide places for rest

and thought. The resulting confusion and disorientation works against optimal

experience.

Lobby

Visitors enter the facility doors through a 10' - 2" high overhang projecting more

than 12' - 0" towards Lafayette Street. The low ceiling height of the lobby, while

not uncomfortable at this height, lacks the feeling of openness many grand

museum facilities have.

The lobby area serves many functions for the facility; however, its primary uses

should be ticketing and as the primary orientation location for the museum.

Within the lobby area there are a few introductory exhibits; small cases feature


planetary science displays, including meteorites and shatter cones. These

small exhibits give visitors a glimpse of exhibits to come. In addition to the small

display cases, the walls in the lobby have been used for photography and art

exhibitions.

From this single point of arrival, museum users are oriented, ticketed, and then

make choices to enter the exhibits, the Planetarium, or the museum store and

restaurant. In addition to these important uses of the lobby, this area also

serves as a de facto waiting/gathering/queuing area for the Planetarium

participants, schools and other groups. Because of this de-facto function, the

lobby can get extremely congested and noisy when multiple groups or classes

are waiting for scheduled events. Adding to this congestion is the entrance to

the Planetarium, as well as a bank of public restrooms.

The design team has observed that the lack of helpful signage often led new

visitors to enter the natural history exhibition space to the south of the ticketing

booth without knowing that other options to explore the museum exist. Once

in the natural history exhibition space, visitors can wander through more than

14,000 square feet of exhibit space on the first floors and flow upstairs to the

cultural history exhibits and the rest of the museum.

Another option exists for visitors; they can enter the double height escalator

and stair lobby and ascend to the second floor. Once on the second floor

visitors can enter the cultural and history exhibit spaces, the Bodine Exhibit Hall

where temporary exhibits are housed, or make their way into the Mansion's

exhibit spaces. Unfortunately, most first time visitors are not aware of this option

because the escalator lobby is hidden behind the ticketing booth, blocking

the visitors’ line of sight.

The main lobby, where the escalator and stairs are located, does more than

simply house additional vertical circulation for the second floor: it serves as a

connector to the IMAX® Theater and contains the museum's restaurant. Guests

wishing to view a show in the IMAX® Theater must pass through the main lobby.

Once in the main lobby, the lower level of the museum containing the IMAX®


Theater and other educational spaces are accessed via a stairway and

elevator located behind the escalators and stairs. It is in this lower area that an

additional bank of public restrooms is located.

Exhibits

Serving as a beacon for the Natural History

Exhibitions, various cases of prepared

skeletons- some laid out as scientific

specimens, others in-situ postures - call out

to visitors. Much of the labeling within these

exhibitions illuminate specific biological

adaptations and evolution of the various

species displayed. Within the Natural

History Exhibitions is a gallery of birds and

insects presented in a field-guide manner.

Vitrines feature taxidermy specimens, eggs,

and nests, helping visitors learn about the

various insects and birds featured within.

Another draw to the Natural History area is

a diorama of various large mammals

including bison, coyote, black bears, elk

and white-tailed deer. This diorama helps to anchor an exhibition dedicated to

the wildlife of the Mid-South region.

Rollo, the Pink Palace’s robotic dinosaur, acts as the greeter to a series of

exhibits addressing the prehistoric Mid-South.

At one time, Rollo was a cutting-edge

exhibit—a one-third life size Triceratops that

moved and roared. It is perhaps emblematic

of the Museum’s need to refresh its exhibits

that Rollo is beyond repair and is now silent

and still. The exhibit A Walk Through Time

Fossils from Coon Creek are among the Museum’s most spectacular natural history specimens.

Collections Highlights

Python (skeleton) donated by the

Memphis Zoo

Large mammal taxidermy mounts

(bison, elk, bear, deer)

Ivory-billed Woodpecker

(taxidermy)

Working seismograph

Cook Creek conglomerate fossils

Mosasaur in shallow relief

Model of Dilophosaurus

Mastodon (cast)

Minerals of the World


takes visitors on a journey through 4.6 million years. Here, many fossils and casts

of Paleozoic and Mesozoic animals give visitors a glimpse of creatures that

once called this area home. Nearby, a small geology section showcases

interesting rock and mineral specimens and proves (thanks to a working

seismograph) the dynamic nature of Mid-South geology. The Natural History

Exhibitions culminate with displays of large-scale dinosaurs and other prehistoric

animals, including a cast mosasaur in shallow relief, casts of a mastodon, and a

fleshed-out model of Dilophosaurus.

A visitor's experience within the Social and Cultural History Galleries typically

begins at the rear of the gallery, as visitors

enter through the Natural History Gallery.

The Paleo Indian period greets visitors at

the top of the rear staircase. In this area

visitors find impressive displays of pottery

in the shapes of human heads as well as

bowl-shaped vessels with effigies of dogs

and sea monsters. The historic period

(representing Quapaw Indians) is replete

with similar pottery examples.

The circulation experience of visitors

hereafter is guided by large iconic installations allowing visitors to choose the

order in which they experience the exhibits. Within these iconic installations is

an 1840s reconstructed cabin housing items a settler of the time might possess.

The story of slavery in Memphis is recounted with only two artifacts, a slave ball

and irons, plus several documents. Diorama-like installations depicting a

surgical tent and a field artillery crew with cannon chronicle the Civil War.

A full- scale replica of a country store invites visitors to experience and learn

how the earliest Memphians lived. Within the store, visitors find grocery and

pharmacy goods as well as various hardware items. Nearby, a late 19th

Century music room displays the elaborate furnishings and treasures of ‘artistic

clutter’ of the period.

Different audiences seek different experiences. Exhibits in the Cultural History Galleries feature themed and theatrical displays (like a recreated dentist’s office) and cases of various objects with little context.


A large portion of the exhibit space is

devoted to the story of the yellow fever

epidemics of the 1870s. Displays

contain curious medical instruments

and remedies associated with Memphis

in this period. From here, visitors wander

directly into the expanded exhibit From

Saddlebags to Science. This exhibit

profiles the history of medicine, dentistry,

nursing and pharmacy in Memphis. A

few small-scale impressive dioramas

(including a dentist’s office and a

doctor’s office) are contained here with

a plethora of curious apothecary items

to explore. In homage to the original

owner of the Pink Place, a full-scale

reproduction of the first 1916 Piggly Wiggly store invites visitors to enter and

browse the store’s shelves. Here one finds interesting grocery products, some

surprisingly familiar to this day.

The gallery concludes with the Clyde Park Circus, a piece of folk art from the

Great Depression. This automated circus is run on a schedule – four times a day

– to the delight of children and families.

The uniquely Memphian culture and smattering of personal history are

celebrated within the exhibits of the Pink

Palace Mansion. Visitors are greeted with

a collection of objects related to

Memphis’ music history, such as Elvis

Presley’s military uniform and W.C.

Handy’s trumpet. After the Memphis

music history collection, visitors progress to

a gallery of women’s costumes and


Mastodon bone bearing butchering

marks

Effigy pottery

Slave irons and slave ball of cast iron

Civil War era cannon

Doctor’s kits and mourning attire

Abe Plough copper kettle

Harper’s prints pertaining to the

yellow fever epidemic

Piggly Wiggly Reproduction and stock

Holiday Inn “great sign” model

Clyde Park Circus


Elvis Presley’s Army uniform

W.C. Handy’s trumpet

Women’s gowns

Pheobe Omlie collection

Cotton Carnival costumes and props


stories. Of special interest here is the Phoebe Omlie exhibit, celebrating a local

wing-walking stunt pilot.

A small room beyond the women’s exhibit showcases the story of the Cotton

Carnival that took place in Memphis prior to 1970. Elaborate costumes and

props relay the story of the historic, Mardi Gras-like Memphis Cotton Maker’s

Jubilee and Carnival.

The current museum has many attractive and interesting exhibits, but they lack

a connecting thread. One moves from dinosaurs to the Native American

Collection without explanation. Although both are interesting, they only

suggest a diffuse storyline that requires clarification. The staff noted the Clyde

Parke circus display and acknowledged the popularity of the shrunken head –

both apparently visitor favorites. The staff also noted that it is difficult to fit both

into an overarching interpretive idea. These issues repeatedly suggest that an

organizing structure is necessary to optimize the visitor experience and

subsequent understanding. Exhibit decisions must provide connections to core

ideas and the rationale for the inclusion of specific objects. To take but one

example, the placement of the shrunken head in the mansion’s Special Events

space is highly disconcerting. Were it to be incorporated into an exhibition

about the museum’s history describing how collections are acquired, however,

it would be both interesting and informative.

Planetarium

Working under a separate contract with Askew Nixon Ferguson Architects and

Helping Planetariums Succeed, the Museum is currently in progress to renovate

and expand the interior area of the Planetarium, add and reorient the seating

and to upgrade the projection technology. Full Dome Video projection, a

dramatic and exciting new technology, will be used in the renovated

Planetarium. This project is now underway and scheduled for completion

prior to the Museum’s expansion/ renovation.


Education

Much of the current educational programming focuses on the school

audience – clearly a major audience for the museum. Developing programs

around educational curriculum standards, as well as utilizing the excellent

laboratory space adds incentive, justification and utility to school visits. The

education staff is highly motivated and energetic, and recognizes the

importance of nurturing positive school relationships. While the emphasis on

curriculum standards and the standards themselves are likely to change over

time it is important to keep the new exhibits closely related to the standards.

Connections to curriculum standards are necessary and complementary real-

world experiences such as a museum visit expands traditional classroom skills.

Allowing students to explore and experience ideas in different ways in a

compelling learning environment has the added bonus of engaging walk-in

visitors as well as planned school tours.

The Education facilities, housed in the 1992 underground addition adjacent to

the IMAX® Theater, are a recent addition to the Pink Palace and seem to be in

good condition and are functioning adequately.

The Family Audience

The museum’s strategic plan cites focus group findings that the museum should

be more interactive and engaging. Not only does hands-on learning deepen

the learning experience for most visitors, it also increases the desire of many

family audiences to have fun together. The family audience is the fastest-

growing audience group attending museums today, and intergenerational

audiences are a core part of the museum’s visitation.

Currently, parents and children have many things to see during their visit, but

not many things to actively engage in together. There is a need for exhibits

that allow families to interact with both the exhibit and each other. Families

have a variety of interests, but in many cases that agenda includes spending

quality time together with the added value of a learning experience. Many

families interviewed in museum research suggest that they look for experiences


in which they can all engage, continue to talk about, and even find ways to

pursue further outside the museum.FFFFF

3

Museums are optimal places for such experiences, and the Pink Palace, with its

broad ranging exhibits, could claim an important niche as a lively and

fascinating family destination. The redesign, therefore, should consider the

inclusion of many more opportunities for interactive learning and for

scaffolding of information, so that both children and adults can contribute to

the conversation and sense of discovery.

Numerous studies suggest that exhibits should allow visitors to gather around

them, rather than always standing in front of them, to better spark conversation

and social engagement.FFFFF

4FFFFF The present exhibits do not address the variety of

visitor learning styles that have been identified in museums. Offering more

ways to approach learning – interactive, experimental, programmatic and

technology-driven – would go a long way toward enabling multiple

generations to learn more from each other.

Collections Storage

There are two primary collection storage areas in the Museum. One was

created specifically for storage of collections, and the other exists as an ad

hoc storage space. One collection area is located in the north end of the 1977

addition while the second is adjacent to the Natural History exhibit hall in the

1977 addition. They are at opposite ends of the 1977 addition. The larger area

is adjacent to new labs and offices added in 1992. The distance between the

two collections is too far apart for staff interaction.

As a part of the 1977 expansion, a three-story space was constructed for

collections storage. A storage rack system was added in the 1992 expansion

and includes elevator access. This larger storage area, which houses the

cultural history collection, is adjacent to new labs and offices added at the

3,4 Beverly Shepherd, Institute of Learning Innovation. UUUUAppendix D-References Related to Master Plan Report UUUU (Internal Email), July 2, 2011


same period. The entire three story storage area is currently full without room to

expand. The museum has had to turn down offers due to lack of space.

The second collection storage area, houses the biology and geology

collections. It is located in space east of the natural history exhibit area. The

biology and geology collections are stored in cabinets and drawers which take

up a large amount of floor space but do not utilize the relatively high ceiling

space. This area is using floor space that could be utilized as exhibition space.

Special Events / Rentals

The Museum, especially the mansion and the front lawn, is a very popular

location for special events in Memphis, averaging more than one event a

week. However, the ability to host very large events is limited by catering and

back-of-house limitations.

One of Memphis' more popular locations for weddings is the mansion’s large

front lawn and grand lobby staircase. In fact, the museum hosted 54 weddings

in 2009. However, the mansion is not currently well-suited to host this and other

types of large events due to its multi-room layout. In addition, the catering

service facilities within the mansion are not adequate for large functions.

The current catering set-up consists of one

small room with two stainless steel work

tables. This space does not contain any

appliances to support catering a large

event, such as warming drawers,

microwave, ice machine or sink. The

current water supply for the catering area is

accessed within the adjacent janitor's

closet. The main level of the mansion,

where weddings and other events are held, is accessed through the second

floor of the east wing. Because there is no direct access to the mansion for the

Mansion catering facility


loading and unloading of catering supplies, all catering and event supplies are

wheeled past exhibit spaces and visitors.

Open spaces within the exhibit wing are more conducive for holding large

events, though these areas are limited as well. The escalator and stair lobby on

the second floor has available open floor space as well as high ceiling and

views to the front lawn and mansion. It is, however, difficult to isolate this space

from visitors, the exhibit areas, and the mansion, resulting in the space’s

availability being restricted to after-hours events. The proximity to collections

and exhibits limits circulation of food and drink.

Isolating public visitor spaces from rental areas is currently difficult, if not

impossible. The layout of the first floor is broken up by the ticketing booth and

the escalator/ stair access. These structural barriers prevent the museum from

utilizing the open area created by both the entrance lobby and the restaurant

dining area to create one large event space. In addition, there is, again, no

dedicated catering kitchen in the east wing. Currently the employee break

room and corridor space serve as improvised catering staging areas.

Administrative

The Administrative offices on the second floor of the museum are currently

adequate to handle the number of staff. There are some cosmetic and

technology upgrades required, especially in the Board Room. The

Administrative staff break room is located on the second floor of the mansion,

which also requires some modernizing.

Guest Services

Ticketing Booths

The facility is well served by four ticketing booths. These booths are located in

the middle of the lobby area and are adequate to handle the volume of

visitors the facility receives. The location of the booths, though, obstructs visitor


views to the open escalator and stair lobby. A lower ceiling height at ticketing

makes the lobby feel smaller.

Membership Office

The Membership office is located near the doors and is in a good location to

capture the attention of visitors as they leave. The office is separated from the

rest of the lobby by a glass storefront system which restricts sound but not the

view.

Call Center

The Call Center is located in a converted museum orientation theater in a

prime area adjacent to the lobby and exhibit hall. As the service has no direct

face-to-face relationship with the visitors, this function should be relocated to

an area away from the lobby area.

Information Desk

The location of the information desk is directly north of the entrance doors. This

location, although adjacent to the entrance, is directly behind visitors as they

enter the door. It is not well identified and is housed behind a nondescript

counter. A successful information desk should be highly visible and have

clearly marked, easily readable signage.

Retail

The retail store occupies the largest space in the lobby and has good sales

figures. The store suffers from two main issues: location and storage. The

location of the store is not in the path of departing visitors, and is hidden from

departing visitors by the ticket booth and office. Relocating the store would

easily solve this issue.

The retail store’s adjoining stock room is too small to meet current demands.

There are three other satellite storage rooms within the facility (two within the

mansion and an area by the loading dock). The multiple locations make re-


stocking time-consuming. Providing the retail store with nearby stock rooms

would alleviate this issue.

Food Services

The restaurant is tucked away in the far northwest corner of the escalator

lobby. It struggles to pull in a dining crowd, possibly due to its location, dated

décor, utilitarian lighting, or lack of visual interest. In addition, the kitchen is too

small for a successful sit-down restaurant. Relocating the restaurant to a highly

visible area, updating the decor and lighting, as well as providing a larger

kitchen would go a long way toward creating a successful restaurant.

Public Amenities

Restrooms

There are seven sets of public bathrooms located within the museum facilities.

In addition to these there are two sets of staff bathrooms, a restroom

dedicated to the dressing area for the theater, and a restroom for the staff

near the third floor mansion break room.

The east wing, containing both the 1977 and 1992 additions has two banks of

public bathrooms on each of the two floors. All are handicap accessible and

appear to be in good condition. The first floor of the east wing houses a large

bank of bathrooms near the gift shop and is accessed through the lobby. A

smaller second bank of restrooms is located west of the gift shop and is

accessed from the escalator and stair lobby, making both banks of restrooms

central in this wing.

The restrooms are more dispersed on the second floor of the east wing. A large

bank of restrooms is accessed from the second floor of the main lobby, almost

directly over the first floor large restroom bank. The second set of public

restrooms on the second floor is accessed from within the cultural history

exhibits, in the northwest corner of this space. In addition to the public

restrooms, there are two sets of staff bathrooms, one on the second floor and a


much smaller set of bathrooms on the third floor/roof level within the access to

the mansion. The second floor employee restrooms are a small bank of

restrooms accessed from the Administration area in the northern part of this

wing. The only non-handicap accessible restrooms in this wing are located at

the third floor/roof level connection to the mansion. These single seat

bathrooms are reserved for staff. Within the underground addition, there is one

very large bank of restrooms to the east of the IMAX® Theater. These restrooms

appear to be in good condition and are handicap accessible.

The mansion has restrooms at every level but only the first and second floors

have public restrooms. All of these public restrooms are handicap accessible.

The first floor of the mansion has one small bank of restrooms available to the

public; these are located off of the Club room. A single restroom is located on

the far west side of the mansion, though this is an employee-only restroom and

is not handicap accessible. The mansion's second floor has one set of public

restrooms, also handicap accessible, located to the south of the ball room. A

staff bathroom is located on the third floor of the mansion; this restroom is not

accessible to the public nor is it handicap accessible.

Structural

The museum facilities consist of three different buildings constructed over a

period of eighty years. The structural section of the report is broken into the

three main sections based on the three buildings being studied: the mansion

(1930), the east wing (1977) addition, and the east wing (1992) infill. Existing

structural drawings as well as photographs and on-site observations were used

to determine the characteristics of each building. Unfortunately, architectural

drawings for the mansion cannot be found and therefore structural information

for the mansion was gathered from photographs and physical observation

alone.

The following is a summary of the Structural analysis and report by Tom Robison, structural engineer. The full report can be found in the appendix.


Various types of structures were constructed at three different times over the

last 80 years at the Pink Palace. Available structural documents were reviewed

to determine the building’s characteristics and an opinion of its seismic

strengths and weaknesses. The existing lateral force resisting systems in each

structure will be noted and a seismic opinion will be based on a general

assessment taking into consideration the level of seismic protection which was

required by the prevailing code at the time of design and construction. The

only way to fully determine the level of seismic protection provided by the

lateral force resisting systems presently constructed would be a complete

seismic analysis which is beyond the scope of this project. The available

structural documents are limited to the exhibit building and its infills. The

drawings for the mansion cannot be located at this time. For this narrative the

buildings are as follows:

• Building 1. 1922: The mansion was constructed

• Building 2. 1974: The east exhibit wing was constructed.

• Building 3. 1992: The two infills to the exhibit wing were

constructed. (The underground education addition is not

included in the study.)

Building 1: The Mansion

The first building constructed in 1922 was the mansion. Structurally there is little

information available. There are no drawings or photographs of the

construction. In a recent walk through, it was noted that the basement area is

cast-in-place concrete floor, walls, beams and slab above in the first level.

Floors above this level appear to be concrete slabs (thickness not known). The

wall/column structures are not known. Designers have been told that the walls

are load bearing brick. Based on what was seen, the structural condition of the

building appears to be good. A few roof leaks were noted but damage from

the leaks was minimal. Obviously there were no seismic provisions in the 1922

building code for this area of the country. That combined with not knowing

anything about the structural framing makes it difficult to speculate on the

available seismic resistance for this building.


Building 2: Exhibit Building

The second phase of construction took place after 1974. The architect was

Thorn-Howe-Stratton-Strong. Consulting Engineer was TLM Associates, Inc. This

structure is separated near the center by a construction joint at the second

floor and roof. In 1974 there were no provisions in the Standard Building Code

which required that seismic design be performed. As noted earlier there are a

fair amount of perimeter walls, some load-bearing concrete and some non-

load bearing block. These walls provide shear resistance to lateral forces

independent of the designer’s intent. Upon reviewing the drawings, it is

believed that these two buildings possibly could be seismically retrofitted

following an extensive seismic analysis.

Buildings 3: Exhibit Building: Support Addition and Exhibit Lobby Addition

The third phase of new construction occurred in about 1992. The architectural

drawings were prepared by Jackson & Bronson Architects. The structural

drawings were prepared by Gardner & Howe. This work consists of Exhibit

Support Addition and Exhibit Lobby Addition which are similar structurally.

These additions are very different from the previous 1974 buildings noted

earlier. The perimeter walls are generally backed by metal studs. Therefore, the

available stiffness for the 1974 structure is not present in these buildings. Instead

the lateral force resisting system is moment resisting frames, which are beams

on column lines connected to the columns in a manner to create a rigid

frame. In looking at the general notes for buildings “B”, “C” and “D” we note

that the governing code at the time was the 1990 Memphis and Shelby County

Joint Building Code (SBC 1988 with local amendments). Seismic zone 2, Z Factor

0.5, Importance Factor 1.0. This building does have a specific system in place

to resist wind and seismic forces. The level of resistance between the code in

place at that time and the present IBC code is significant especially with

regard to moment resisting frames and their connections.

Summary Statement:

This narrative has discussed the significant structural features of the various

buildings as well as the potential for seismic strengthening. A mandatory


seismic retrofit would not be required by code. If a voluntary seismic retrofit is

requested by the owner, a more complete and detail seismic analysis would

be required in accordance with ASCE/SEI-41 “Seismic Rehabilitation of Existing

Buildings”.

1974 east wing - Planetarium and Exhibit spaces

The finished floor elevations of the east wing's first floor are 283.0 (north portion)

281.0 & 283.0 (south portion), with the second floor elevation being 297.0. This

section’s foundations are drilled (belled) piers with the bottom of piers - 255.0

(Roughly 28' deep) (Allowable soil bearing = 10,000 psf). The first floor is a 1. 5"

slab on grade with 1 layer of wwf 6x6-w1.4xw1.4 (all concrete 4000 psi) all

reinforcing- GR 60 (except ties are GR 40). The roof and second floor share a

similar framing structure with Concrete beams and pan joists (4" slab with 1'-4"

deep joists) (all concrete 4000 psi) all reinforcing- GR 60 (except ties are GR 40).

The high roof structure is a 6" concrete one way slab (located above stair #1

and passenger elevator).

Discussions regarding the lateral force resisting systems in this section of the

facility follow: Because the north and south portions of building the 1974

addition are disconnected at the expansion joint, they should be considered

as two separate buildings from a seismic perspective.

The north portion of the 1974 building has, as its most effective lateral force

resisting system, concrete shear walls. The second most effective would be the

perimeter (non-structural) 8" block walls. Although these walls were not

specifically there for seismic force resistance, their stiffness does offer some

protection against building collapse. However the protection depends on the

magnitude and duration of the earthquake as well as the connectivity of the

walls to the floors. The majority of the east perimeter wall, which is concrete, is

not connected to the second floor due to the open areas. This condition, at

the second floor, leaves only the concrete walls around the two elevators and

around stair #1 as being effective to resist forces from the second floor (east


side). Perimeter block infill walls on the west and south side would be effective

as long as they remained in place. The roof structure is connected to all of the

concrete walls along the east side. Therefore seismic force generated from the

roof mass can be handled better than at the second floor condition.

The southern half of the 1974 building has a better distribution of concrete walls

at the perimeter. It also has a large open area in the second floor on the south

side of the building. As noted in the northern section of this building, this causes

an irregular condition there. The roof condition is similar to the north building

condition.

In1974 the Standard Building Code did not require seismic design. As noted

earlier there are a fair amount of perimeter walls, some load-bearing concrete

and some non-load bearing block. These walls provide shear resistance to

lateral forces independent of the designer’s intent. The opinion is that these

two buildings possibly could be seismically retrofitted following an extensive

seismic analysis if requested but not mandatory by code.

1992 East Wing Infill - Escalator and Stair Lobby and Administration Areas

Buildings #3 Exhibit Support Addition and Exhibit Lobby Addition:

The third phase of new construction occurred in about 1992. (The contract

documents for this work are dated 1990.) The architectural drawings were

prepared by Jackson & Bronson Architects. The structural drawings were

prepared by Gardner & Howe. Exhibit Support Addition (Area “B”) and Exhibit

Lobby Addition (Area “C”). These additions are similar structurally. The finish

floor elevation of the first floor is 283.08, while the second floor finish elevation is

297.00. The foundations of these sections are drilled (belled) piers (Area “B”)

while Area “C” is primarily spread footings. Typically the reinforcing in piers

extends to the bottom of each pier. The first floor is a 4" slab on grade with 1

layer of wwf 6x6-w1.4xw1.4. It has a foundation and slab on grade concrete

3000 psi and the tops of drilled piers braced by grade beams in the slab. The

second floor slab is 5-1/4" composite slab (3000 psi lightweight concrete fill). The


slab is supported by steel beams and steel columns; while a lateral force

resisting system is “ordinary moment frames of steel.” The roof framing is 1-1/2"

metal deck on steel bar joists with steel bar joists supported by steel beams and

columns. The roof's lateral force resisting system is “ordinary moment frames of

steel.”

These additions are very different from the previous 1974 buildings noted

earlier. The perimeter walls are generally backed by metal studs. Therefore, the

available stiffness for the 1974 structure is not present in these buildings. Instead

the lateral force resisting system is moment resisting frames, which are beams

on column lines connected to the columns in a manner to create a rigid

frame. In the general notes for the 1992 and 1996 building addition note that

the governing code at the time was the 1990 Memphis and Shelby County

Joint Building Code (SBC 1988 with local amendments). Seismic zone 2, Z Factor

0.5, Importance Factor 1.0. This building does have a specific system in place

to resist wind and seismic forces. The level of resistance required by the code in

place at that time and the present IBC code is significant especially with

regard to moment resisting frames and their connections. Because of the

existing condition of these buildings and the fact that we are not changing the

use, a mandatory seismic retrofit would not be required by code.


Basic Floor Plan - Structural Sections


HVAC

The Mansion (1930)

The majority of the building is served by water-source heat pumps (WSHP)

installed between 1985 and 1990. The indoor WSHP units are supplied with

condenser water that is warmed by natural gas-fired boilers and cooled by a

closed circuit cooler. WSHPs in exhibit areas are floor-mounted vertical type

with finished cabinet and the WSHPs serving the second floor are located in the

attic. The facility is heated by two boilers. One boiler was installed prior to 1985

while the other boiler was installed in the late 1990s. A closed circuit cooler was

installed in 2003. Direct-expansion (DX) split-systems (exterior air-cooled

condensing unit, interior AHU) serve the Mansion Theater, Ballroom and Club

Room; all the AHUs were installed in 1990. For the Mansion Theater, an air-

cooled condensing unit (ACCU) was replaced in 2009. The ACCU's that supply

the Ballroom and the Club Room were replaced in 1998.

The indoor WSHP units are generally in poor shape. The units are 20 to 25 years

old, which is at or exceeds their life expectancy. Several units were observed

as being not functional, with frozen cooling coils and other maintenance

problems. Replacement of these units is planned to happen in a separate

project. The closed circuit cooler is 7 years old. This unit has a life expectancy

of 20 years. If properly maintained, it should provide 10 to 15 more years of

service. The newer boiler should be checked for condition to determine its

expected remaining life. The older boiler leaked and is no longer in use. It

should prove beneficial to upgrade the boilers controls to be automated and

programmable with current technology. The piping from the boiler and the

closed circuit cooler are both connected to the condenser water system that is

piped to all WSHPs. The piping system arrangement should be checked closely

to make sure it is proper and as efficient as possible. The WSHP system is more

energy–efficient than the air-cooled DX equipment which serves the larger

event spaces, yet the WSHP system efficiency is not optimized due to the lack

of interior zones. The energy used by WSHP systems is significantly decreased in

the winter when simultaneous heating and cooling loads occur, which


happens if there are significant interior zones. However, because there are very

few interior zones in the mansion, the system is not as energy efficient as

desired. The Theater, Ballroom, and Club Room AHUs are 20 years old, and

have reached their life expectancy and should be budgeted to be replaced

in the next five years. The ACCUs serving the Ballroom and Club Room are 12

years old. These units have a life expectancy of 15 years. The ACCU serving

the Theater was installed in 2009, so it should remain in service for 10 to 15

years. The indoor air quality in the Mansion, especially the large event rooms, is

of noticeably lower quality than the 1973/1991 building. The HVAC systems do

not appear to be supplied with outside air for ventilation as is required by

current codes for mechanical ventilation. There appears to be a problem with

moisture penetrating the exterior walls that are below-grade; this might be a

primary reason for deficiencies in the indoor air quality. Also, the west end of

the first floor, which serves as the back-of-house work space for food catering,

has an undesirable odor. Much of this is due to the carpet in this area that

retains spills and dirt; these are inappropriate finishes in a food service area. In

addition to changing the finishes, a combination of introducing outside air and

exhausting air in selected areas would also improve air quality conditions.

If future plans include a kitchen within the mansion, it will be necessary to

locate ducts and fans for grease or heat exhaust.

The mansion HVAC system has few opportunities for energy saving renovations

without changing the system type (WSHP and DX). In fact, adding outside air

will increase the energy use. Short of changing the system type to four-pipe

chilled water/hot water or variable refrigerant flow, there are five achievable

ways to reduce energy usage. Two ways to reduce the energy usage in the

mansion facility involve improving the insulation qualities of the facility by

adding insulation to the walls and roof as well as adding an insulation layer to

the windows. All equipment should be kept clean and well maintained.

Adding a programmable building management system for scheduling,

monitoring and data logging will help with maintenance. In addition,


replacing equipment with newer, more efficient equipment will reduce the

energy usage within the mansion.

1974 and 1992 East Wing Additions

The east wing has a four-pipe heating and cooling system and is supplied from

a chiller plant and a boiler plant. This chiller plant consists of two 450-ton water-

cooled centrifugal chillers with cooling towers on the roof. One of the chillers

and the cooling towers were installed in 1991. The other chiller was installed in

1997. The chiller plant provides chilled water for air-conditioning of this

building. The chiller plant is equipped with a water-side economizer utilizing a

plate-and-frame heat exchanger. This provides chilled water below outdoor

temperatures of 42 degrees F without using the chillers. The wing's boiler plant

consists of four water-tube natural gas-fired boilers rated at 1,615 MBH output

each. These provide hot water for space heating for this building. Boilers are

forced-draft water-tube type installed in 1992. Both chilled water and hot

water is piped to air-handling units (AHUs) and fan-coil units (FCUs). The large

exhibition spaces, the IMAX® Theater, and the Planetarium are served by

single-zone constant volume (CV) AHUs. Space thermostats control heating

and cooling coils in the AHUs, adjusting the supply air temperature to the

needs of the space. The offices, classrooms, and back-of-house areas are

served by variable-air-volume (VAV) AHUs. Space thermostats control VAV

terminal units in the duct system to provide cooling or heating to each control

zone. The AHU fan speed is varied to save energy when the AHU is at less than

peak load. The shops and other areas without ceilings are served by FCUs.

Humidifiers at most of the AHUs maintain a minimum relative humidity. This was

probably designed to improve the life-span of the exhibits. The humidifiers are

electric, stand-alone type that produce steam that is piped to and injected in

adjacent AHU casings or ducts. Temperature control system is a combination

direct digital control (DDC) / pneumatic system. Most of the control

components were installed in the 1991 project, although there may be some

components originally installed in 1973. The user interface is a computer

terminal in the Security Office. The software is 1990s vintage, and allows the


user to monitor space and equipment operating points from one location.

Outside air ventilation is achieved by ducting outside air to return air ducts at

most of the AHUs. Toilet exhaust is achieved by roof-mounted exhaust fans at

each toilet group. Other specific ventilation needs such as fume hoods and

paint spray booths are handled by dedicated exhaust fans.

The current system has provided good performance for the building

occupants. The design is appropriate, and the system has been well-

maintained. The space conditions in the facility are comfortable, and during

the time spent on-site during this Programming Phase, very few complaints

regarding the system performance have been uncovered.

The current outside air ventilation system appears to be adequate. Unpleasant

odors or excessive negative pressures at the doors were not noticed. The only

complaint encountered regarding ventilation and odors was at the paint

booth in a work room. A detailed analysis would be required to determine

how the overall ventilation system compares to the current code requirements.

The age of most of the system components is nearing or past the life

expectancy. Because of this the City should plan on replacing significant parts

of the system over the next ten years.

The chillers in this wing are19 years and 13 years old. While life expectancy of a

chiller is 25 years or greater; it is not uncommon to find chillers of this type that

have been in service for 40 years. The east wing's cooling tower was installed 19

years ago. These two chillers are reported to be in excellent condition. The

older chiller uses a refrigerant (R-11) that is no longer manufactured. Due to

the excellent condition of the machine and availability of R-11, a refrigerant

conversion is not recommended. Typical life expectancy for a cooling tower is

20 years. The boilers have a life expectancy of 20 to 25 years. The boilers

serving the east wing are 19 years old. Approximately a dozen Air Handling

Units (AHUs) are 36 years old with an additional dozen AHUs are 19 years old.

Life expectancy of AHUs is 20 to 25 years. The older AHUs show much rust on

the coils and should be replaced as soon as possible. Most of the VAV air


terminal units, fan coil units, fans, and heaters are 19 years old, and some are

36 years old. The life expectancy of these is 20 years. The duct work serving the

east wing was installed when the wing was constructed 19 and 36 years ago.

Typical life expectancy for duct work is 30 years. The pumps for hot water,

chilled water and condenser are 19 years old, their typical life expectancy is 20

years. The Pneumatic temperature control system is around 19 years old, while

some components are possibly 26 years old. The life expectancy of typical

temperature control systems is 20 years. All life expectancy data is from

ASHRAE, UUUUU2007 Handbook – HVAC Applications UUUUU, Table 4 "Comparison of Service

Life Estimates" and reflect the industry standards.

Due to the age of the system, there are many opportunities to reduce energy

consumption as failing equipment is replaced. High efficiency equipment such

as condensing boilers and chillers as well as pump and fan motors can reduce

energy usage. Investment in systems such as a variable primary pumping of

chilled water system or variable flow pumping of the hot water system would

result in energy reductions. Variable speed fans and variable speed pumping

for cooling tower/condenser water system would help reduce energy use

within the east wing. Replacing the building management system for

temperature control with a state-of-the-art direct digital control (DDC) system is

necessary due to difficulty in replacing spare parts in an obsolete system.

Finally, the building should be re-commissioned to return the operations to the

design intent.

In future alterations, wherever existing ceilings will be raised, piping runs will

need to be re-routed or planned to be exposed. If new walls are added or

existing removed, sprinkler heads and piping will need to be relocated. If a

new exhibit hall entry is created on the second floor by taking space out of an

existing AHU room, at least two AHUs would need to be replaced with roof-top

AHUs, and ductwork would need to be re-located, along with piping and

electrical and control panels. Additionally, if any existing AHU rooms are taken

for other space needs, a new AHU room will need to be created.


Fire Protection

The typical life expectancy of sprinkler piping is 20-80 years, therefore pipe

testing is required to determine piping condition. No piping maintenance

issues have been documented. Below are observations and evaluations of the

current facilities with regards to the fire protection.

The Mansion (1930)

The mansion building is fully sprinklered, including attics and crawl spaces. The

system includes three dry valves and one wet valve. All valves and flow

devices for the sprinkler system are remotely monitored. Exhibit spaces have

general area sprinkler coverage, but no coverage in exhibits. The theater has

a 1-½" hose connection located at the entrance. Overall the fire protections

systems within the mansion are in good condition. Additional sprinkler

coverage in the exhibit spaces could be added to meet FM requirements. For

future alterations, wherever existing ceilings will be raised, piping runs will need

to be re-routed or planned to be exposed and sprinkler heads will need to be

relocated. If new walls are added or existing removed, sprinkler heads and

piping will need to be relocated.

East Wing and 1996 Additions

Both buildings are fully sprinklered. The water supply to the entire facility

originates from a 12" city water main in Lafayette St. A fire department

connection located on the east side of the building serves the whole facility.

The system for the east wing includes two wet risers with area zoning, a

precaution valve serving the planetarium, and one standpipe with 2-½" hose

connections located in the central stair on the west side near the office areas.

The IMAX® Theater includes two wet valves for the theater and classrooms, a

dry valve for the loading dock/ generator, 1-½" hose connections on each side

of the stage and a 1-½" hose connection outside of the labs. All valves and

flow devices for sprinkler systems are remotely monitored. Exhibit spaces have

general area sprinkler coverage, but no coverage in exhibits. Additional

sprinkler coverage in the exhibit spaces could be considered to meet current


FM requirements. Wherever existing ceilings will be raised, piping runs will need

to be re-routed or planned to be exposed and sprinkler heads will need to be

relocated. If walls are added or removed, sprinklers heads and piping will

need to be relocated. If a new Exhibit Hall entry is created on the second floor

by taking space out of an existing AHU room, sprinkler piping and sprinkler

heads would need to be relocated. If a lobby dedicated specifically for the

Planetarium Lobby is created on the first floor, the Planetarium preaction

valve, air system and drain would need to be relocated. A new lobby opening

would require relocation of existing sprinkler heads and piping. Additional

sprinkler coverage would be required around the opening. Locating a new

lobby on the south side of the building would require adjustment to the sewer/

storm drainage service and additional sprinkler coverage.

Plumbing

The typical life expectancy of water, sanitary sewer and storm drainage piping

is 20-80 years, therefore pipe testing is required to determine piping condition.

No piping maintenance issues have been documented. Below are

observations and evaluations of the current facilities with regards to the

plumbing.

The Mansion (1930)

Domestic water service is supplied from a ductile iron main that has been

partially replaced. Localized storage type electric water heaters are located

throughout the building to provide domestic water heating. Water is returned

to the water heaters via a small circulator pump at each water heater.

Reduced pressure backflow preventers are located at all process equipment

that receives domestic water. Piping is a combination of copper, PVC and the

original galvanized steel. Sanitary sewer is provided at all fixtures and

equipment. The storm drainage consists of downspouts and deck drains for the

balconies. Both the sanitary sewer and storm drainage piping is a combination

of galvanized steel, PVC and cast iron.


Water closets within the mansion are vitreous china with manual controls. Both

carrier mounted flush valve and tank type water closets exist within the

mansion. The mansion’s urinals are Vitreous china carrier mounted type with

manual flush valve controls. Lavatories within the mansion are also made of

Vitreous china. Both countertop and wall mounted varieties are found within

this portion of the museum facility although both have 4" center set manual

controls. Sinks found within the mansion are stainless steel countertop mounted

versions with manual controls. The water cooler within the mansion is a bi-level

application which is surface mounted and has manual controls.

The city has had problems with leaks and metal flaking in the galvanized and

ductile iron water systems. Low water pressure causes toilet flushing problems.

This could be due to piping closure in the galvanized piping system caused by

corrosion. The galvanized sewer piping has been problematic and is difficult to

clean. The labs on the second floor currently drain to sanitary sewer with no

treatment. If chemicals are used in the labs, a neutralization basin would need

to be added. The galvanized storm drainage piping has been problematic

and is difficult to clean due to the fittings used. The piping for the main lobby

balcony has been leaking. The Club Room has flooded during heavy rains.

Plumbing fixtures in the public toilets are in good condition and have been

updated to meet ADA. Bathrooms in other areas do not meet ADA and the

fixtures are in poor condition. Water conserving fixtures and metering faucets

could be considered to reduce water usage in employee bathrooms. If

existing ceilings will be raised, piping runs will need to be re-routed or planned

to be exposed. Additionally the use of the café kitchen and prep kitchen will

require a new grease interceptor.

1974 and 1992 East Wing

Domestic water service is provided from a water main in Lafayette Street. Both

service entrances are located on the east side of the building and have a

double check valve backflow assembly located inside the building. Domestic

service for the IMAX® Theater is supplied from the lower exhibit area and enters

a mechanical room located on the southeast side of the IMAX® Theater.


Localized storage type electric water heaters are located throughout the

building to provide domestic water heating. Water is returned to the water

heaters via a small circulator pump at each water heater. Process equipment

that receives domestic water has a reduced pressure backflow preventer.

Sanitary sewer is provided at all fixtures and equipment. Sewer piping exits the

east side of the building where it is collected and drained to a manhole in the

parking area on the southeast side of the building. The sewer then drains to a

city manhole located in Lafayette Street. The exhibit support area has a small

acid waste system with a neutralization basin on the west side of the building.

The sewer piping for the IMAX® Theater drains to a duplex lift station located in

a mechanical room on the southeast side of the IMAX® Theater. The acid

waste system for the labs drains to a neutralization basin located in the same

mechanical room and then to the lift station. A simplex sump pump located in

the IMAX® Theater lower mechanical room discharges condensate for the

lower level air handling units. Storm drainage consists of internal roof drains and

overflow scuppers. Roof drains typically collect in the upper floor ceiling in

several locations, drop below the ground floor slab and exit the building on the

east side. From here, they are routed to storm inlets on the site. A duplex

dewatering station is located on the southeast side of the IMAX® Theater for

drainage. Compressed air systems are used for exhibit pneumatics, dry-type

fire protection systems, shop tools, labs and HVAC controls. Two large air

compressors are located in the first floor mechanical room on the north side of

the exhibits. Smaller local air compressors are located throughout the building.

The water coolers are bi-level applications, surface mounted and have manual

controls. The Break Room sinks are stainless steel counter top fixtures with

manual controls. The laboratory sinks within these portions of the facility are

epoxy resin types, which are under-counter mounted with manual controls.

Water heaters are in good condition. The typical life expectancy for a tank

type electric water heater and circulating pump is 10-15 years. This type of

equipment is usually replaced at failure. The lift station for the IMAX® Theater

has recently been reconditioned and is working properly. The typical life

expectancy is 15 years. The dewatering pumps for the IMAX® Theater have


recently been reconditioned and are working properly. The typical life

expectancy is 15 years. Compressed air systems are adequate for the facility

and are in good condition. The typical life expectancy is 15 years. Plumbing

fixtures are generally in good condition and public bathrooms have been

upgraded to meet current ADA guidelines. Water conserving fixtures and

metering faucets could be considered to reduce water usage. If existing

ceilings will be raised, piping runs will need to be re-routed or planned to be

exposed. In the event that a new Exhibit Hall entry would be created on the

second floor by taking space out of an existing AHU room, plumbing drains

and domestic water serving the AHUs would need to be removed. Creating a

new lobby on the south side of the building would require adjustment to the

sewer/ storm drainage service. If a new School Gathering/ Event entrance or

Dock Staging area were to be added, the domestic water service entrance

and drainage would need to be relocated.

Electrical

The Mansion

Electrical systems in the mansion are extensions of the systems serving the

newer buildings, having been upgraded over the last 30 years. System

description information is the same as that given for the 1974/1992 building.

However, some electrical panels in the western portion of the mansion are

original equipment panels and should be replaced, along with their feeders

and branch circuit wiring, when those areas are next renovated.

1974 and 1992 East Wing Additions

Power

Electrical service is supplied to the building at 277/480 volts, 3-phase, from an

MLGW pad-mounted transformer on the east side of the building, fed from a

riser pole at Lafayette Street. This service was new in 1992, and feeds into main

switchboard "MSB", the service disconnecting means. The "MSB" contains two

switches, distributing power to the 1974 Main Switchboard "SWB-B" via a 3000

amp bus duct, and to the 1992 motor control center "MCC-B2" in the Chiller


Room via a 1600 amp bus duct. Current mechanical equipment is primarily

served at 480 volts, from the 1974 and 1992 motor control centers. Generally

each 120/208 branch circuit panelboards are fed from "SWB-B" through its own

step-down transformer. Emergency power for egress lights and exit signs,

except in the IMAX® Theater/Education area, is served by a 1974-vintage 30kw

diesel generator, through a 100 amp Automatic Transfer Switch (ATS). The

generator has an adjacent 50-gallon diesel fuel tank, which is refilled manually

(fuel is carried in by hand in 5-gallon diesel fuel cans). Engine cooling is

accomplished with a non-recirculating domestic cold water supply, which is

routed through the engine's water jacket and discharged to the sanitary sewer.

Emergency power in the IMAX® Theater/Education area is served by a 250 kw

diesel generator, through two ATSs. One of the ATSs serves egress lights and

exit signs plus other equipment, and the other ATS serves misc. equipment only.

The existing electrical service, pad-mounted transformer, main switchboard

"MSB" secondary switchboard "SWB-B", and most panels and transformers are in

good condition and have significant useful life remaining. MLGW records

indicate the peak electrical demand over the last 2 years occurred during the

month of August 2010, and was 720kw, which, assuming a conservative power

actor of 0.8, translates into a peak current draw of 1083 amps, only slightly over

one-third of the capacity of the main switchgear. Therefore, no immediate

need exists to replace or upgrade the electrical service or distribution

equipment. An infrared scan of the electrical distribution system components

performed by TVA in July and August of 2009, revealed nine locations where

temperatures exceeded normal levels. Of these nine "thermal anomalies," two

have been repaired, one is on MLGW-owned equipment, and the remaining

six have been classified as "minor" or "intermediate" issues, and are being

addressed by maintenance staff.

In the Café area, additional receptacle circuits are desired to alleviate circuit

breakers tripping when more than one plug-in appliance is utilized

simultaneously. Of the emergency power system components, the only item of

concern is the 30kw diesel generator. The concerns with the generator are


due to undesirable fueling and cooling systems as well as difficulty finding

replacement parts. Replacement of this generator and automatic transfer

switch is recommended within the next five years. One viable option for

upgrade is replacement with a ground-mounted diesel generator with skid-

mounted fuel tank, weatherproof enclosure and unit-mounted air-cooled

radiator. However, it is likely that the existing 250kw generator in the IMAX®

Theater/Education area has enough spare capacity to be able to take on the

load currently served by the 30kw unit. This option would require only the

provision of a new automatic transfer switch and the interconnecting feeder

and control wiring

Lighting

General Interior lighting is fluorescent, utilizing T12 lamps, while exhibit lighting is

mostly incandescent. Nighttime security lighting in exhibit areas is generally

fluorescent strips. Exit signs have compact fluorescent lamps. Some interior

public areas have incandescent downlights that have been relamped with

self-ballasted compact fluorescent lamps. Exterior lighting mostly utilizes

decorative post lights with high-pressure sodium lamps in vehicular areas, with

some use of bollard fixtures in pedestrian areas. Exterior lighting is time-clock

controlled.

Some fluorescent light fixtures have been upgraded to T8 lamps and electronic

ballasts, but many are still T12 lamps and magnetic ballasts. For energy savings,

these fixtures should all be upgraded, where upgrade is possible. In addition,

exit signs should be upgraded to LED type to save energy and maintenance

costs. Many incandescent light fixtures have been retrofitted with self-

ballasted compact fluorescent lamps, and the plan is for that process to

continue. Exterior lighting is generally in good functional condition, and should

be expected to function well for the foreseeable future, if maintained properly.


Fire Alarm

The existing fire alarm system is an addressable Honeywell system installed in

the 1992 project. The Fire Alarm Control Panel is located in the security office,

and is monitored on site through the same computer system that additionally

serves as the temperature control system interface (also Honeywell). During

construction of the 1992 project, the original 1974 system was upgraded to

match the 1992 system, with the mansion system being subsequently

upgraded, so that at present the entire facility is covered by the same

addressable system. There is no voice evacuation feature – evacuation is

signaled by traditional horns and strobes. Smoke detection exists throughout

the facility. The existing system is in good operating condition, and should be

expected to function well for the foreseeable future, if maintained properly.

Security

An existing Honeywell Security System, originally installed by a third-party,

provides monitoring of the building perimeter and some exhibit spaces. Some

motion sensors and touch sensors in interior spaces are no longer functional,

and some have been abandoned as changes were made to exhibit spaces.

Honeywell now services this system, which is also accessed and controlled by

the same computer that serves temperature controls and fire alarms. The

perimeter system, which is limited to door position switches on most exterior

doors, is intact and functional. The existing system does not have the ability to

incorporate card readers or key fobs. A separate existing system of cameras,

DVRs and controls provides visual surveillance capabilities, monitored from the

Security Office. Some cameras are fixed-type, some are pan-tilt-zoom type.

The original system has been added to over the years, so that there is currently

a mix of Javelin and Viacon cameras and DVRs.

Much, but not all, of the existing access control and security camera systems

are functional, but very limited in capabilities. Technology is 10-15 years old,

and, while technical support is expected to be available for the foreseeable

future, there are many state-of-the-art functions available in current systems


that could be very useful and render the facility much more secure. Upgrade

is recommended at the earliest opportunity.

Telecommunications

The existing analog telephone system has been upgraded to a digital system.

Both the data and telephone systems are maintained by the City of Memphis

I.T. Department.

Public Address

Announcements are made to building occupants over an existing TOA Electric

Company PA system, which is roughly 20 years old. The announcements can

be made directly into the system, remotely through the telephone system, or

by pre-recorded messages announced automatically. This system does not

cover the IMAX® Theater area, which has its own PA system. System amplifiers

and associated equipment are located in the Security Office. Currently this

system is partially functional but replacement component cost is high, and,

given the age of the system, increased component failure is expected. System

upgrade is recommended in next 5 years.

Audiovisual

Audiovisual equipment at the museum is minimal and should be reviewed as

part of this study to determine the proper upgrades that will be needed. From

cell phones to pre-recorded MP3 players, today’s Museum is utilizing a wide

variety of methods to educate and entertain their visitors. This master plan will

identify and recommend some of these new audiovisual devices for the Pink

Palace.

Acoustics

Acoustics has been a issue at the Pink Palace, especially in the main lobby

and mansion. The hard surfaces of the floor, walls and ceiling amplifies the

ambient sound levels and when large groups, especially school children are in

attendance, the sound levels are above what is normally acceptable for a


museum setting. Sound absorbent materials, sound masking systems and

other methods will have to be used to create a pleasant experience for all

visitors.

Building Codes – Earthquake Issues

See structural narrative and full structural report in Appendix.

Signage – Honorific, Way-finding, Informational

Currently the signage at the Pink Palace is confusing and not performing its

intended function: to direct visitors to the main entry hall and to key areas

within the museum. A thorough review of the existing signage is needed and

as part of any renovation/ upgrade, the signage must be improved. A visible

new entry as indicated in Alternate E would be extremely useful to attract

visitors to the new entrance of the museum. But with so many activities within

the museum itself, appropriate, legible and easily seen way finding signage is a

must for any new plan.

Americans with Disabilities Act Compliance

A comprehensive ADA compliance study was completed in 2004 by the City of

Memphis. The Main entry hall as well as the entry to the mansion have ramps

and handrails as required for ADA compliance. Any new entries must be

designed to provide fully compliant public accessibility. All public restrooms

and spaces are currently accessible; however the mansion’s second floor has

three restrooms that are not accessible as well as other back-of-house restroom

facilities that are not compliant. Any newly constructed restroom facilities will

need to be ADA compliant.


CONCEPTUAL DESIGN ALTERNATIVES 1. (The Museum in its Educational and Societal Context:) Preliminary Public

Engagement Report

In Summer and Fall of 2011, Barbara Prescott, our public engagement

facilitator will meet with members of the general public to discuss what the Pink

Palace’s role should be in the Memphis community and how its mission can be

achieved. Meetings will be held at the Pink Palace at various times to explore

what types of events/ topics/ exhibits would be attractive to the public and

what might be the best format for delivery.


Scheme B – First Floor Plan

Club Room

Catering Prep Kitchen with new

Dumbwaiter Renovated Restaurant

Kitchen

Gift Shop

Ticketing

Lobby

Membership

School Gathering

M W

Renovated Collections

Exhibit I

Existing Entry Doors

Collections Exhibit Prep


Scheme B – Second Floor Plan

Mansion Catering Kitchen

Mansion Catering Staging

Mansion Ballroom

Mansion Lobby

Exhibit II

Exhibit III

Mezzanine

Remove existing stairs and floor existing opening

Administration

Collections

Mansion Theatre

Dunavant Room / Event

Mansion Exhibit



Scheme B – Third Floor Plan

Call Ctr Conf.

Friends

Future Exhibit

Conf.

Roof

Roof

Dressing Rm


Scheme C – First Floor Plan

Café Receiving, Storage & Prep

Kitchen

New Dumbwaiter

Club Room

Collections


Membership & Ticketing

Office Planetarium

Lobby

Ticketing

2 storey space

Gift Shop

School Gathering /

Event

Gift Shop Storage

Exhibit I

Lobby

Collections

Relocated Entry Doors

School Entry

Exhibit Prep


Scheme C – Second Floor Plan

Café Kitchen

Café Dining Rm


Outdoor Dining



Room

Mansion Ballroom

Mansion Lobby

Mansion Exhibit


Mezzanine

Exhibit IV

Exhibit III

Exhibit II

New Entry

Storage

Mech.

Mech.

Administration

Collections

Mansion Theatre


Scheme C –Third Floor Plan

Exhibit

New Elev

Storage

Conf.

Call Ctr

Dressing Rm

Friends

Conf.

Admin. Break Rm

Roof

Roof


Scheme D – First Floor Plan


Club Room

New Dumbwaiter


Exhibit Prep

Planetarium Lobby

Circulation Lobby

Loading Dock

Exhibit I


New Stairs

Dock Staging

M W

School Gathering /

Events Entrance


Ticketing

Membership

Lower Plaza

Plaza

Artifact

Artifact

Lawn

Artifact


Gift Shop

Gift Shop Storage



Scheme D – Second Floor Plan

Café Kitchen

Café Dining Rm


Outdoor Dining


Mansion Ballroom

Mansion Lobby

Mansion Exhibit


Mezzanine

Administration

Collections

Mansion Theatre

Exhibit IV

Exhibit III

Exhibit II

New Entry

Mech.

Mech.

Open to Lobby below

Open to below


Scheme D – Third Floor Plan

Call Ctr

Conf.

Friends

Exhibits

Conf.

Roof

Roof

Dressing Rm

Glass Box Expansion over new Lobby with light refracting sculpture


Scheme E – First Floor Plan


Club Room

New Dumbwaiter


Exhibit Prep

Planetarium Lobby

Circulation Lobby

Loading Dock

Exhibit I

New Stairs

Dock Staging

M W

School Gathering /

Events Entrance


Ticketing

Membership

Lower Plaza

Plaza

Artifact

Artifact

Lawn

Artifact


Gift Shop

Gift Shop Storage



Scheme E – Second Floor Plan

Café Kitchen

Café Dining Rm


Outdoor Dining



Room

Mansion Ballroom

Mansion Lobby

Mansion Exhibit


Mansion Theatre

Mezzanine

Administration

Collections

Exhibit IV

Exhibit III

Exhibit II

New Entry

Mech.

Mech.

Open to Lobby below

Open to below


Scheme E – Third Floor Plan

Exhibit

New Elev

Storage

Conf.

Call Ctr

Dressing Rm

Friends

Conf.

Admin. Break Rm

Roof

Roof


2. Site Design Alternatives and Phases

Many different ideas were explored for the site. These included using the

mansion as the main entry, creating a new student entry on the west side of

the IMAX® Theater, and creating a new entry on the upper level of the

exhibition building. Parking areas were studied, including the loading and

unloading of school children, and the view from Central Avenue and impact

upon entry were considered. Of all ideas explored, four alternate design

concepts were chosen and developed further for this first phase of the master

plan. These three alternates are as follows:

Alternate B: Reuse entry plaza with same entry

• Use existing main entry but move entry doors to the south

• Loading and unloading areas unchanged

• Upgrade parking lot and lighting

• Improve wayfinding/ signage

Alternate C: Modified new entry on west side

• Enlarge plaza at existing main entry/ Move entry south

• Modify loading and unloading areas for new plaza

• New elevator/ stair on north wall of mansion

• New loading area for new kitchen in mansion



Alternate D and E New main entry on southeast corner

• New main entry at SE corner near Central Avenue

• Enlarged exterior plaza at main entry

• Modify loading and unloading areas for new plaza

• New elevator/ stair on north wall of mansion (Scheme E)

• New loading area for new kitchen in mansion




3. Building Design Alternatives and Phases

Some of the ideas explored for the interior of this master plan included new

main entry points, new school entry points/ additional parking areas, new

dining areas, alternate locations for exhibit areas, moving the admin area into

the mansion, and consolidating exhibits. Of all ideas explored, three alternate

design concepts were chosen and developed further for this first phase of the

master plan. These four alternates are as follows:

Alternate B: Same entry/ reorganization of interior spaces

• Use main entry but move entry doors to the south

• Create new ticketing/ membership areas

• Create new entry/ school gathering area

• Enlarge the gift shop

• Move the Call Center to upper floor of mansion

• Renovate the existing cafeteria space

• Upgrade all exhibit areas

Alternate C: New entry on west side/ reorganize interior spaces/new

elevator in mansion/ iconic exhibits on upper floor mansion

• New main entry with Planetarium holding area/ Feature

• New entry/ school gathering area

• Enlarged gift shop/ storage area

• Call Center moves to east side - upper floor of mansion

• New dining area in mansion/ kitchen for special events

• Increase size and upgrade all exhibit areas

• Iconic exhibits moved to upper floor of mansion

• New elevator/ stair connects all floors of mansion and is accessible

when special events occur

• New admin areas on upper floor of mansion

• Collections area consolidated


Alternate D: New main entry on southeast corner/new main lobby/

reorganization of interior spaces / Iconic Exhibits on Upper Floor mansion/

temporary exhibits on ground floor/ new dock

• New main entry hall at SE corner near Central Avenue.

• Enlarged exterior plaza at main entry

• New two story main lobby

• New entry/ school gathering area

• Gift shop relocated and enlarged / storage area

• Call center moved to west side - upper floor of mansion

• New dining area in mansion/ kitchen for special events

• Lower level of mansion activated for food storage and prep

• All exhibit areas relocated/ upgraded

• Iconic exhibits moved to east side - upper floor of mansion

• Collections area consolidated

• Temporary gallery on ground floor with new dock

• Enlarged special event/ public gathering areas with new warming

kitchen

Alternate E : Same as Alternate D with the addition of:

• New elevator/ stair to connect all floors of mansion

• Call center moved to east side upper floor of mansion

• New administration areas on upper floor of mansion

4. Criteria for Evaluation of Schemes

In an effort to impartially evaluate the alternatives outlined above and to

explore the value of adding a stair and elevator to the mansion to allow

museum visitors to easily access the Club Room on the lower floor of the

mansion and the upper floor, now used only for staff and volunteers, we have

created one additional column indicated as Alternative E, a combination of


Alternate D with the elevator/ stair in Alternate C as well as the Alternate C

layout for the upper floor of the mansion.

Many of the goals outlined in this Master Plan report have been listed in an

evaluation matrix below and a numerical value of 2, needs improvement to 5,

excellent, was given to each alternate for each of these goals. When totaled,

the numerical value for each alternate allows for a quick comparison of the

relative strength of each alternate when compared to all others. Of particular

interest in this matrix are goals numbered 1, 8, 9,13, 18, 23 and 24. These goals/

objectives are critical to the success of the reconfiguration of the Pink.

5. Evaluation Matrix

As outlined above, this evaluation matrix is a comparison of the three

alternates, with a fourth alternate created by combining the elevator/stair

and upper level layout shown in Alternate C with Alternate D to create

Alternate E.

Alternate Evaluation Matrix Pink Palace Master Plan Alternates Goal/ Objective B C D E Existing 1 Provide a Wow factor/ new main entry 3 3 5 5 Not seen, hard to find 2 Place most parking closer to main entry 2 2 5 5 Most parking far from entry

3 Improve main lobby/ ticketing/ circulation 3 4 5 5 Confusion by visitors

4 New entry/ orientation area for school groups 4 4 5 5 none

5 Enlarge gift shop/ position near main exit 3 5 4 4 located at entry

6 Enlarge/ improve membership office 5 3 4 4 located at entry

7 Locate temp exhibit area on ground floor 2 3 5 5 now on second floor

8 Provide new dock for temp exhibit area 2 2 5 5 none 9 Make collections areas contiguous 2 5 5 5 not contiguous now

10 Provide new/expanded visitor 3 3 4 4 limited/ dated


restrooms

11 Increase public spaces/ special events 3 4 5 5 Mansion, primarily

12 Increase exhibit area 5 5 4 4 Currently 42,000 SF

13 All permanent exhibits contiguous 3 5 5 5 Not Contiguous now

14 Catering Kitchen for special events 2 4 5 5 N/A

15 Allow iconic exhibits to move into Mansion 2 5 5 5

now in permanent exhibit area

16 Move call center and improve admin 5 5 5 5 no windows/ near main entry

17 Provide new offices for Friends 4 5 5 5 Needs renovation/ reorg

18 Provide new restaurant/ dining area 2 5 5 5 Cafe currently on ground floor

19 Outdoor dining area 2 5 5 5 none

20 Easy access to Planetarium 5 5 3 3

21 Create Planetarium holding area 3 5 5 5 near main entry now

22 Improve access to Club Room 2 5 2 5 access very poor/ confused

23 Allow public to access 2nd floor of mansion 2 5 4 5 none

24 Cost of Construction 4 3 5 5 Total Points 73 100 110 114 Note: Alternate E has elevator/ stair added to mansion as seen in Alternate C Legend: 5 - Excellent 4 - Good 3 - Acceptable 2 - Needs Improvement


6. Conclusions

As seen in the evaluation matrix, the total numerical value for each alternate is

as follows:

Alternate B 73

Alternate C 100

Alternate D 110

Alternate E 114 (Alternate D combined with Stair/ Elevator and Upper

Level of Alternate C)

The conclusion that can be drawn from this evaluation is that Alternate B is the

weakest of the four alternates and would resolve only a few of the goals/

objectives outlined in this report. Alternate C, while a much better solution

that Alternate B, still falls short and with the main entry still located on the east

side of the museum, is not the optimum scheme. Alternate D, however, with

few exceptions is clearly the best of the three alternates and finally resolves

several key issues:

• An easily identified Main entry hall

• All collection areas now contiguous with BOH access

• A dedicated loading dock for the temporary exhibit area with

appropriate floor load capability

• The permanent exhibits will be contiguous (same floor)

• A new dining area with outdoor seating

• Easy public access to the Club Room and Upper level of the

mansion

• Cost of Construction

An improvement to Alternate D would be to add the elevator/ stair indicated

in Alternate C along with the layout suggested for the Upper Level of the

mansion. This new Alternate E would be approximately $269,990 more

expensive than Alternate D (see cost estimates below) but its impact would be

great by allowing visitors to easily access the upper floor and rotunda of the


mansion; Both of which are currently inaccessible or accessible only with

difficulty from the mansion main floor.

Clearly Alternate E is the optimum choice for further study in the next phase of

this master plan but by developing the three alternates, we have explored

many ‘what-if’ scenarios and the design team should be sure that all good

ideas explored in each of these alternates finds their way, whenever possible,

into the final scheme.


COST ESTIMATE SUMMARY

1. Alternatives, phasing and estimated costs

The probable cost of construction of the alternates, shown below, was

achieved by inviting two general contractors, both experienced in exhibit

work, to visit the site, review the proposed plans and to place a square foot (SF)

value on each area which will be modified. Both of the two contractors,

Linkous Construction Company and CM Plus, gave their estimate of the SF

value for each area and the final SF value is a composite of these two

numbers. These SF values contain the contractors’ overhead and profit,

general conditions, contingencies, permitting and bonding.

Cost Comparison Chart Master Plan

Alternate

B C D E

Building $2,849,776 $4,489,125 $5,213,444 $5,483,434

COM Requirements $569,955 $897,825 $1,042,689 $1,096,687

Exhibits $17,363,780 $16,386,460 $12,880,700 $12,880,700

Grand Total $20,783,511 $21,773,410 $19,136,833 $19,460,821

The difference between Alternate D and E is the addition of stair/ elevator on

the north wall of the mansion which will allow easy public access to all floors

and in particular the exhibits area on the upper floor. A sum of $269,990 was

estimated to be needed to make this change.

The total amount of exhibit area is always of particular concern to any museum

and as seen from the Exhibit Comparison Chart below, very little difference

exists between the four alternates if a value of .333 is placed on all public

gathering/ exhibit areas (non – restricted) as well as the exterior plaza area.


These areas would contain exhibits that are able to withstand close interaction

with the general public.

Exhibit Comparison Chart Master Plan

Alternate Exhibit Areas Square Feet

B C D E

Exhibit Area - Restricted 39,925 40,259 34,197 34,197

Exhibit Area - Non Restricted @ .333 2,149 2,521 3,831 3,831

Exhibit Area Exterior - Main entry hall 500 600 3,600 3,600

Grand Total 42,574 43,380 41,628 41,628

Non Restricted & Exterior Exhibit Area = 1/3 of actual

area

See Appendix C for full Probable Cost Estimate break down


CONSTRUCTION PHASING PLAN

The work described in Alternate D and E could be phased into three steps as

shown below to allow for a gradual renovation of the Pink Palace. However, if

most of the funds needed for the entire renovation/ reconfiguration could be

found at the onset of this project, then the entire project could be completed at

one time, perhaps with a brief period when the entire museum would be closed.

1. Phase One: Upgrade existing parking/loading areas, new main entry,

lobby and plaza, new school entry/ orientation area, new temp exhibit space,

compress and move natural history into temp gallery on 2nd floor (meaning a

new natural history exhibit in about 5000 SF, not simply moving the existing

exhibit upstairs), new gift shop, move collections, new public spaces on the

ground and second floor (only where we fill in the existing opening), new call

center in mansion, new loading dock for temp gallery. This will be the most

impressive phase and it comes first to set the stage for other phases.

Cost: Approx $7million Time to construct: 16 months

2. Phase Two: Renovate the mansion, new stairs/elevator to upper floor, (per

scheme C), new exhibits on ground floor of mansion (mainly about history of

mansion, etc.), move the circus, Piggly Wiggly store, and other iconic exhibits

relating to the history of the museums to the mansion, new cafe/ food prep

areas, dining room.

Cost: Approx. $3million Time to construct: 7 months

3. Phase Three: Renovate or replace all remaining exhibits on second floor, install

new permanent exhibits on second floor of exhibits building, modify

mechanical room as needed.

Cost: Approx. $9 million Time to construct: 14 months


A LAST WORD ON IDENTITY:

Institutions, like people, have identities based on what is distinctive and

enduring about them. Institutional is often called “brand” or “image.”. Today

the Pink Palace Family of Museums’ brand has many definitions in the public

mind. The planning process ahead should consider how to bring these images

into a cohesive whole. The final result of the Master Plan should be a museum

which has exhibits that are perfectly aligned with its brand - in other words, a

museum that keeps its promises to the visitor.

ANF-Memphis CCA-Boston Pink Palace Master Plan Phase 1/31/2012 1

APPENDIX A

TOM ROBISON & ASSOCIATES, INC. Structural Engineers

1.0 Introduction/Summary

A. The purpose of this narrative is to identify the various types of structures

which were constructed at three different times over the last 80 years. We

have reviewed available structural documents to determine the building’s

characteristics and an opinion of it’s seismic strengths and weaknesses. We will

note the existing lateral force resisting systems in each structure. The seismic

opinion will be based on our general assessment taking into consideration the

level of seismic protection which was required by the prevailing code at the

time of design and construction. The only way to fully determine the level of

seismic protection provided by the lateral force resisting systems presently

constructed would be a complete seismic analysis which is beyond the scope

of the narrative. The available structural documents are limited to buildings #2

& #3. (The drawings for the mansion cannot be found.)

1.1 Following is a list of buildings 1 - 3:

A.

1. 1922: The mansion was constructed.

2. 1974: The east exhibit wing was constructed.

3. 1992: The two infills to the exhibit wing (exhibit support addition at the

north end of the east wing and the exhibit lobby addition as well as

the Underground Education Addition. (Underground Education

Addition is not included in the study.)

B. Note the key plan on page 5.

1.2 Building #1 (The Mansion):

A. The first building constructed in 1922 was the mansion. It was to be the

home of Clarence Saunders. Structurally there is little information available.

There are no drawings or photographs of the construction. In our recent walk

through we noted that the basement area is cast-in-place concrete floor,

walls, beams and slab above in the first level. Floors above this level appear to


be concrete slabs (thickness not known). The wall/column structures are not

known. We were told that the walls are load bearing brick. Based on what we

could see, the structural condition of the building appears to be good. A few

roof leaks were noted but damage from the leaks was minimal. Obviously

there were no seismic provisions in the 1922 building code for this area of the

country. That combined with not knowing anything about the structural

framing makes it difficult to speculate on the available seismic resistance for

this building.

1.3 Building #2 (Planetarium & Exhibits):

The second phase of construction took place after 1974 (drawings

dated 1974, see key plan). The architect was Thorn-Howe-Stratton-

Strong. Consulting Engineer was TLM Associates, Inc. This structure is

separated near the center by a construction joint (2nd floor & roof). The

general description of the structure is as follows:

A. Finished floor elevations;

1. First floor elevation - 283.0 (north portion 281.0 & 283.0 (south portion).

2. 2nd floor elevation - 297.0

B. Foundations:

1. Drilled (Belled) Piers.

2. Bottom of piers - 255.0 (Roughly 28’ deep) (Allowable soil bearing =

10,000 psf)

C. First floor:

1. 5” slab on grade with 1 layer of wwf 6x6-w1.4 (all concrete 4000 psi)

all reinforcing - GR 60 (except ties are GR 40).

D. Second Floor:

1. Concrete beams and pan joists (4” slab with 1’-4” deep joists) all

concrete 4000 psi) all reinforcing-GR 60 except ties are GR 40).

E. Roof:

1. Similar framing as second floor.

F. High roof:


1. 6” concrete one way slab (located above stair #1 and passenger

elevator).

G. Lateral Force Resisting System:

The north and south portions of building #2 are disconnected at the

expansion joint, therefore should be considered as two separate buildings

from a seismic perspective.

1. North building:

a. Concrete shear walls-The most effective lateral force resisting

system in this building is its concrete shear walls. The second most

effective would be the perimeter (non-structural) 8” block walls.

Although these walls were not specifically there for seismic force

resistance, their stiffness does offer some protection against

building collapse depending on the magnitude and duration of

the earthquake as well as their connectivity to the floors. The

majority of the east perimeter wall, which is concrete, is not

connected to the second floor due to the open areas. This

condition at the second floor leaves only the concrete walls

around the two elevators and around stair #1 as being effective

to resist forces from the second floor (east side) perimeter block

infill walls on the west and south side would be effective as long

as they remained in place. The roof structure is connected to all

of the concrete walls along the east side. Therefore seismic force

generated from the roof mass can be handled better than at the

second floor condition.

2. South Building:

a. The south building has a better distribution of concrete walls at

the perimeter. It also has a large open area in the second floor

on the south side of the building. As noted earlier, this causes an

irregular condition there. The roof condition is similar to the north

building condition as we discussed.

H. Discussion:


1. In 1974 there were no provisions in the Standard Building Code which

required that seismic design be performed. As noted earlier there

are a fair amount of perimeter walls, some load-bearing concrete

and some non-load bearing block. These walls provide shear

resistance to lateral forces independent of the designer’s intent. Our

opinion is that these two buildings possibly could be seismically

retrofitted following an extensive seismic analysis.

2. South Building:

1.4 Building #3 Exhibit Support Addition and Exhibit Lobby Addition:

The third phase of new construction occurred in about 1992. (The

contract documents for this work are dated 1990.) The architectural

drawings were prepared by Jackson & Bronson Architects. The

structural drawings were prepared by Gardner & Howe.

Exhibit Support Addition (Area “B”) and Exhibit Lobby Addition

(Area “C”). These additions are similar structurally.

A. Finished floor elevation:

1. First floor elevation - 283.08

2. Second floor elevation - 297.00

B. Foundations:

1. Drilled (belled) piers (Area “B”). Area “C” is primarily spread footings.

2. Reinforcing in piers extend to bottom of piers.

C. First floor:

1. 4” slab on grade with 1 layer of wwf 6x6-w1.4xw1.4

2. Foundation and slab on grade concrete 3000 psi.

3. Tops of drilled piers braced by grade beams in slab.

D. Second floor:

1. Slab: 5-1/4” composite slab (3000 psi lightweight concrete fill).

2. Slab supported by steel beams and steel columns.

3. Lateral force resisting system is “ordinary moment frames of steel.”

E. Roof:

1. 1-1/2” metal deck on steel bar joists.


2. Steel bar joists supported by steel beams and columns.

3. Lateral force resisting system is “ordinary moment frames of steel.”

F. Discussion:

1. These additions are very different from the previous 1974 buildings

noted earlier. The perimeter walls are generally backed by metal

studs. Therefore, the available stiffness for the 1974 structure is not

present in these buildings. Instead the lateral force resisting system is

moment resisting frames, which are beams on column lines

connected to the columns in a manner to create a rigid frame. In

looking at the general notes for buildings “B”, “C” and “D”, we note

that the governing code at the time was the 1990 Memphis and

Shelby County Joint Building Code (SBC 1988 with local

amendments). Seismic zone 2, Z Factor 0.5, Importance Factor 1.0.

This building does have a specific system in place to resist wind and

seismic forces. The level of resistance between the code in place at

that time and the present IBC code is significant especially with

regard to moment resisting frames and their connections. This is not

to say that seismic retrofit of the two infill structures is not out of the

question.

1.5 Summary statement:

We have discussed in this narrative the significant structural features of

the various buildings as well as the potential for seismic strengthening.

With regard to seismically retrofitting these buildings, a complete seismic

analysis would be required in accordance with ASCE/SEI-41 “Seismic

Rehabilitation pf Existing Buildings.”

`ANF-Memphis CCA-Boston Pink Palace Master Plan Phase 1/31/2012 1

APPENDIX B

MECHANICAL AND ELECTRICAL SYSTEMS Existing Systems Description of the 1974/1992 Building: The following is a description of the plumbing, fire protection, HVAC, and electrical systems.

Plumbing: 1. Domestic water service is provided from a water main in Lafayette

Street. Both service entrances are located on the east side of the building and have a double check valve backflow assembly located inside the building. Domestic service for the IMAX® Theater is supplied from the lower exhibit area and enters a mechanical room located on the southeast side of the IMAX® Theater. Localized storage type electric water heaters are located throughout the building to provide domestic water heating. Water is returned to the water heaters via a small circulator pump at each water heater. Process equipment that receives domestic water has a reduced pressure backflow preventer.

2. Sanitary sewer is provided at all fixtures and equipment. Sewer piping exits the east side of the building where it is collected and drained to a manhole in the parking area on the southeast side of the building. The sewer then drains to a city manhole located in Lafayette Street. The exhibit support area has a small acid waste system with a neutralization basin on the west side of the building. The sewer piping for the IMAX® Theater drains to a duplex lift station located in a mechanical room on the southeast side of the IMAX® Theater. The acid waste system for the labs drains to a neutralization basin located in the same mechanical room and then to the lift station. A simplex sump pump located in the IMAX® Theater lower mechanical room discharges condensate for the lower level air handling units.

3. Storm drainage consists of internal roof drains and overflow scuppers. Roof drains typically collect in the upper floor ceiling in several locations, drop below the ground floor slab and exit the building on the east side where they are routed to storm inlets on the site. A duplex dewatering station is located on the southeast side of the IMAX® Theater for drainage.

4. Compressed air systems are used for exhibit pneumatics, dry‐type fire protection systems, shop tools, labs and HVAC controls. Two large air compressors are located in the first floor mechanical room on the north


side of the exhibits. Smaller local air compressors are located throughout the building.

5. Plumbing fixture types consist of the following, all controls are manual: a. Water Closets – Carrier mounted, Flush valve, Vitreous china b. Urinals – Carrier mounted, Flush valve, Vitreous china c. Lavatories – Countertop mounted, 4” center set, Vitreous china d. Water Coolers – Surface mounted, Bi‐level e. Break Room Sinks – Countertop mounted, Stainless steel f. Lab Sinks – Undercounter mounted, Epoxy Resin


Fire Protection: 1. All of the buildings are fully sprinklered. The water supply to all

buildings originates from a 12ʺ city water main in Lafayette St. A fire department connection located on the east side of the building serves all buildings. The system for the main building includes two wet risers with area zoning, a preaction valve serving the planetarium, and one standpipe with 2‐½ʺ hose connections located in the central stair on the west side near the office areas. The IMAX® Theater includes two wet valves for the theater and classrooms, a dry valve for the loading dock/ generator, 1‐½ʺ hose connections on each side of the stage and a 1‐½ʺ hose connection outside of the labs. All valves and flow devices for sprinkler systems are remotely monitored. Exhibit spaces have general area sprinkler coverage, but no coverage in exhibits.

HVAC: 1. Four‐pipe heating and cooling system is supplied from a chiller plant

and a boiler plant. 2. Chiller plant consists of two 450‐ton water‐cooled centrifugal chillers

with cooling towers on the roof. One of the chillers and the cooling towers were installed in 1991. This chiller is an R‐11 (refrigerant‐type) machine. The other chiller was installed in 1997 and is an R‐123 machine. The chiller plant provides chilled water for air‐conditioning of this building.

3. The chiller plant is equipped with a water‐side economizer utilizing a plate‐and‐frame heat exchanger. This provides chilled water below outdoor temperatures of 42 degrees F without using the chillers.

4. Boiler plant consists of four water‐tube natural gas‐fired boilers rated at 1,615 MBH output each. Boilers are forced‐draft water‐tube type installed in 1992. The boiler plant provides hot water for space heating for this building.

5. Chilled water and hot water is piped to air‐handling units (AHUs) and fan‐coil units (FCUs).

6. Large exhibition spaces, the IMAX® Theater, and the Planetarium are served by single‐zone constant volume (CV) AHUs. Space thermostats control heating and cooling coils in the AHUs, adjusting the supply air temperature to the needs of the space.

7. Offices, classrooms, and back‐of‐house areas are served by variable‐air‐volume (VAV) AHUs. Space thermostats control VAV terminal units in the duct system to provide cooling or heating to each control


zone. The AHU fan speed is varied to save energy when the AHU is at less than peak load.

8. Shops and other miscellaneous spaces without ceilings are served by FCUs.

9. Humidifiers at most of the AHUs maintain a minimum relative humidity. This was probably designed to improve the life expectancy of the exhibits. The humidifiers are electric, stand‐alone type that produces steam that is piped to and injected in an adjacent AHU casing or duct.

10. Temperature control system is a combination direct digital control (DDC)/pneumatic system. The pneumatic devices, mainly valves and space thermostats, are powered by air compressors. Most of the control components were installed in the 1991 project, although there may be some components originally installed in 1973. The user interface is a computer terminal in the Security Office. The software is 1990s vintage, and allows the user to monitor and adjust space and equipment operating points from one location.

11. Outside air ventilation is achieved by ducting outside air to return air ducts at most of the AHUs.

12. Toilet exhaust is achieved by roof‐mounted exhaust fans at each toilet group. Other specific ventilation needs such as fume hoods and paint spray booths are handled by dedicated exhaust fans.

Electrical: 1. Power:

a. Electrical service is supplied to the building at 277/480 volts, 3‐phase, from an MLGW pad‐mounted transformer on the east side of the building, fed from a riser pole at Lafayette Street. This service was new in 1991, and feeds into main switchboard ʺMSBʺ, the service disconnecting means.

b. ʺMSBʺ contains two switches, distributing power to the 1973 Main Switchboard ʺSWB‐Bʺ via a 3000 amp bus duct, and to the 1991 motor control center ʺMCC‐B2ʺ in the Chiller Room via a 1600 amp bus duct.

c. Mechanical equipment is primarily served at 480 volts, from the 1973 and 1991 motor control centers.

d. 120/208 volt branch circuit panelboards are fed from ʺSWB‐Bʺ, each generally through its own step‐down transformer.


e. Emergency power for egress lights and exit signs, except in the IMAX® Theater/Education area, is served by a 1973‐vintage 30kw diesel generator, through a 100 amp Automatic Transfer Switch (ATS). The generator has an adjacent 50‐gallon diesel fuel tank, which is refilled manually (fuel is carried in by hand in 5‐gallon diesel fuel cans). Engine cooling is accomplished with a non‐recirculating domestic cold water supply, which is routed through the engineʹs water jacket and discharged to the sanitary sewer.

f. Emergency power in the IMAX® Theater/Education area is served by a 250 kw diesel generator, through two ATSs. One of the ATSs serves egress lights and exit signs plus other equipment, and the other ATS serves misc. equipment only.

2. Lighting: a. General Interior lighting is fluorescent, utilizing T12 lamps, while

exhibit lighting is mostly incandescent. Nighttime security lighting in exhibit areas is generally fluorescent strips. Exit signs have compact fluorescent lamps. Some interior public areas have incandescent downlights that have been relamped with self‐ballasted compact fluorescent lamps.

b. Exterior lighting mostly utilizes decorative post lights with high‐pressure sodium lamps in vehicular areas, with some use of bollard fixtures in pedestrian areas. Exterior lighting is time‐clock controlled.

3. Fire Alarm: a. The existing fire alarm system is an addressable Honeywell

system installed in the 1991 project. The Fire Alarm Control Panel is located in the security office, and is monitored on site through the same computer system that serves as the temperature controls system interface (also Honeywell). During construction of the 1991 project, the original 1973 system was upgraded to match the 1991 system, with the mansion system being subsequently upgraded, so that at present the entire facility is covered by the same addressable system. There is no voice evacuation feature – evacuation is signaled by traditional horns and strobes. Smoke detection exists throughout the facility.

4. Security: a. An existing Honeywell Security System, originally installed by a

third‐party, provides monitoring of the building perimeter and some exhibit spaces. Some motion sensors and touch sensors in


interior spaces are no longer functional, and some have been abandoned as changes were made to exhibit spaces. Honeywell now services this system, which is also accessed and controlled by the same computer that serves temperature controls and fire alarms. The perimeter system, which is limited to door position switches, on most exterior doors is intact and functional. The existing system does not have the ability to incorporate card readers or key fobs.

b. A separate existing system of cameras, DVRs and controls provides visual surveillance capabilities, monitored from the Security Office. Some cameras are fixed‐type, some are pan‐tilt‐zoom type. The original system has been added‐to over the years, so that there is currently a mix of Javelin and Viacon cameras and DVRs.

5. Telephone/Data: a. The existing analog telephone system has been upgraded to a

digital system. b. Data and telephone systems are both maintained by the City of

Memphis I.T. Department. 6. Public Address:

a. Announcements are made to building occupants over an existing TOA Electric Company PA system, which is roughly 20 years old. The announcements can be made directly into the system, remotely through the telephone system, or by pre‐recorded messages announced automatically. This system does not cover the IMAX® Theater area, which has its own PA system. System amplifiers are associated equipment located in the Security Office.

Existing Systems Description of the mansion: The following is a description of the plumbing, fire protection, HVAC, and electrical systems.

Plumbing: 1. Domestic water service is supplied from a ductile iron main that has

been partially replaced. Localized storage type electric water heaters are located throughout the building to provide domestic water heating. Water is returned to the water heaters via a small circulator pump at each water heater. Reduced pressure backflow preventers are located at all process equipment that receives domestic water. Piping is a combination of copper, PVC and the original galvanized steel.


2. Sanitary sewer is provided at all fixtures and equipment. Sewer piping is a combination of galvanized steel, PVC and cast iron.

3. Storm drainage consists of downspouts and deck drains for the balconies. Piping is a combination of galvanized steel, PVC and cast iron.

4. Plumbing fixtures consist of the following, all controls are manual: a. Water Closets – Carrier mounted, Flush valve, Vitreous china and

Tank Type, Vitreous china b. Urinals – Carrier mounted, Flush valve, Vitreous china c. Lavatories – Countertop and Wall mounted, 4” center set,

Vitreous china d. Water Cooler – Surface mounted, Bi‐level e. Sinks – Countertop mounted, stainless steel

Fire Protection: 1. The building is fully sprinklered, including attics and crawl spaces.

The system includes three dry valves and one wet valve. All valves and flow devices for the sprinkler system are remotely monitored. Exhibit spaces have general area sprinkler coverage, but no coverage in exhibits. The theater has a 1‐½ʺ hose connection located at the entrance.

HVAC: 1. Majority of building is served by water‐source heat pumps (WSHP)

installed between 1985 and 1990. 2. Indoor WSHP units are supplied with condenser water that is warmed

by natural gas‐fired boilers and cooled by a closed circuit cooler. 3. One of the boilers was installed prior to 1985. The other boiler was

installed after 1990. 4. The closed circuit cooler was installed in 2003. 5. WSHPs in exhibit areas are floor‐mounted vertical type with finished

cabinet. 6. WSHPs serving the second floor are located in the attic. 7. A direct‐expansion (DX) split‐system (exterior air‐cooled condensing

unit, interior AHU) serves the mansion theater. Hot water is piped to the AHU for space heating. The AHU was installed in 1990. The air‐cooled condensing unit (ACCU) was replaced in 2009.

8. A DX split‐system serves the Ballroom. Hot water is piped to the AHU for space heating. The AHU was installed in 1990. The ACCU was replaced in 1998.


9. A DX split‐system serves the Club Room. Hot water is piped to the AHU for space heating. The AHU was installed in 1990. The ACCU was replaced in 1998.

Electrical: 1. Electrical systems in the mansion are extensions of the systems serving

the newer buildings, having been upgraded over the last 30 years. System description information is the same as that given for the 1973/1991 building.

Evaluations of the 1974/1992 Building: The following is an evaluation of the plumbing, fire protection, HVAC, and electrical systems.

Plumbing: 1. The typical life expectancy of water piping is 20‐80 years. Pipe testing

is required to determine piping condition. No piping maintenance issues have been documented. Water heaters are in good condition. The typical life expectancy for a tank type electric water heater and circulating pump is 10‐15 years. This type of equipment is usually replaced at failure.

2. The typical life expectancy of sanitary sewer piping is 20‐80 years. Pipe testing is required to determine piping condition. No piping maintenance issues have been documented. The lift station for the IMAX® Theater has recently been reconditioned and is working properly. The typical life expectancy is 15 years.

3. The typical life expectancy of storm drainage piping is 20‐80 years. Pipe testing is required to determine piping condition. No piping maintenance issues have been documented. The dewatering pumps for the IMAX® Theater have recently been reconditioned and are working properly. The typical life expectancy is 15 years.

4. Compressed air systems are adequate for the facility and are in good condition. The typical life expectancy is 15 years.

5. Plumbing fixtures are generally in good condition and public bathrooms have been upgraded to meet current ADA guidelines. Water conserving fixtures and metering faucets could be considered to reduce water usage.


6. Master Plan Schemes – Plumbing Modifications: a. Wherever existing ceilings will be raised, piping runs will need to

be re‐routed or planned to be exposed. b. Where the new Exhibit Hall entry would be created on the second

floor by taking space out of an existing AHU room, plumbing drains and domestic water serving the AHUs would need to be removed.

c. Where the new School Gathering/ Event entrance or Dock Staging area would be added, the domestic water service entrance and drainage would need to be relocated.

d. The new lobby on the south side of the building would require adjustment to the sewer/ storm drainage service.

Fire Protection: 1. The typical life expectancy of sprinkler piping is 20‐80 years. Pipe

testing is required to determine piping condition. No piping maintenance issues have been documented. Additional sprinkler coverage in the exhibit spaces could be considered to meet current FM requirements.

2. Master Plan Schemes – Fire Protection Modifications: a. Wherever existing ceilings will be raised, piping runs will need to

be re‐routed or planned to be exposed and sprinkler heads will need to be relocated.

b. Wherever walls are added or removed, sprinklers heads and piping will need to be relocated.

c. Where the new Exhibit Hall entry would be created on the second floor by taking space out of an existing AHU room, sprinkler piping and sprinkler heads would need to be relocated.

d. Where the new Planetarium Lobby would be created on the first floor, the Planetarium preaction valve, air system and drain would need to be relocated.

e. The new lobby opening would require relocation of existing sprinkler heads and piping. Additional sprinkler coverage would be required around the opening.

f. The new lobby on the south side of the building would require adjustment to the sewer/ storm drainage service and additional sprinkler coverage.


HVAC: 1. The system has provided good performance for the building

occupants. The design is appropriate, and the system has been well‐maintained. The space conditions in the facility are comfortable, and during the time spent on‐site during this Programming Phase, very few complaints regarding the system performance have been uncovered.

2. The age of most of the system components is nearing or past the life expectancy. Listed below is the age of the major components and the industry standard life expectancy (see ASHRAE, UUUUU2007 Handbook – HVAC Applications UUUUU, Table 4 ʺComparison of Service Life Estimatesʺ): a. Chillers: 19 years and 13 years. Life expectancy is 25 years or

greater. It is not uncommon to find chillers of this type that have been in service for 40 years. These two chillers are reported to be in excellent condition.

b. Chiller refrigerant: The older machine uses R‐11 refrigerant, which is no longer manufactured due to its zone depletion potential. This machine is described as ʺvery tight,ʺ needing very little replacement refrigerant. Also, replacement R‐11 is not difficult to find, and the price has decreased recently. Due to these factors, and the excellent condition of the machine, a conversion to a non‐ozone‐depleting refrigerant is not recommended.

c. Cooling Tower: 19 years. Life expectancy is 20 years. d. Boilers: 19 years. Life expectancy is 20 to 25 years. e. Air‐Handling Units: approximately a dozen AHUs are 36 years

old, and a dozen AHUs are 19 years old. Life expectancy is 20 to 25 years. The older AHUs show much rust on the coils and some damage. These AHUs should be replaced as soon as possible.

f. Pumps, Hot Water, Chilled Water, and Condenser: 19 years. Life expectancy is 20 years.

g. VAV air terminal units, fan coil units, fans, heaters: most are 19 years old; some are 36 years old. Life expectancy is 20 years.

h. Ductwork: 19 years and 36 years. Life expectancy is 30 years. i. DDC/Pneumatic temperature control system: 19 years, with

possibly some components 36 years old. Life expectancy is 20 years.


3. Because almost all of the HVAC system equipment and components are near, at, or past their life expectancy, the City should plan on replacing significant parts of the system over the next ten years.

4. The outside air ventilation system appears to be adequate. Unpleasant odors or excessive negative pressures at the doors were not noticed. A detailed analysis would be required to determine how the building ventilation system compares to the current code requirements. The only complaint encountered regarding ventilation and odors was at the paint booth in a work room.

5. Supplemental cooling or appropriate modifications should be considered for the IMAX® Theater projector room. Cooling is critical for this space. During winter, sometimes the cooling system must be switched from water‐side economizer to chiller operation to keep this space satisfied.

6. Due to the age of the system, there are many opportunities to reduce energy consumption or improve dependability as failing equipment is replaced. The following is a list of possibilities to consider: a. Replace existing chillers with high efficiency chillers when

existing chillers are at end‐of‐life. b. Variable speed pumping of chilled water system. c. Variable speed fans and variable speed pumping for cooling

tower/condenser water system. d. High efficiency condensing boilers. e. Variable speed pumping of the hot water system. f. Replace fan and pump motors with high efficiency motors. g. Replace the front‐end building management system for

temperature control with current system. The present interface system is obsolete, and the facility is somewhat at risk due to lack of spare parts and an old platform.

h. Perform building commissioning to return building operation to design intent.

7. Master Plan Schemes – HVAC Modifications: a. Wherever existing ceilings will be raised, major duct and piping

runs will need to be re‐routed or planned to be exposed. b. Where the new Exhibit Hall entry would be created on the second

floor by taking space out of an existing AHU room, at least two AHUs would need to be replaced with roof‐top AHUs, and ductwork would need to be re‐located, along with piping and electrical and control panels.


c. Wherever an existing AHU room is being taken for other space needs, such as the entrance to School Gathering in Scheme C, or the Staging Dock in Scheme D, a new AHU room will need to be created.

Electrical: 1. Power:

a. The existing electrical service, pad‐mounted transformer, main switchboard ʺMSBʺ secondary switchboard ʺSWB‐Bʺ, and most panels and transformers are in good condition and have significant useful life remaining. MLGW records indicate the peak electrical demand over the last 2 years was in August of 2010, and was 720kw, which, assuming a conservative power actor of 0.8, translates into a peak current draw of 1083 amps, only slightly over one‐third of the capacity of the main switchgear. Therefore, no immediate need exists to replace or upgrade the electrical service or distribution equipment.

b. An infrared scan of the electrical distribution system components performed by TVA in July and August of 2009, revealed nine locations where temperatures exceeded normal levels. Of these nine ʺthermal anomalies,ʺ two have been repaired, one is on MLGW‐owned equipment, and the remaining six are classified as ʺminorʺ or ʺintermediateʺ issues, and are being addressed by maintenance staff.

c. In the Café area, additional receptacle circuits are desired to alleviate circuit breakers tripping when more than one plug‐in appliance is utilized simultaneously.

d. Of the emergency power system components, the only item of concern is the 30kw diesel generator, for which replacement parts are becoming hard to find, and which has undesirable fueling and cooling systems. Replacement of this generator and automatic transfer switch is recommended within the next five years. One viable option for upgrade is replacement with a ground‐mounted diesel generator with skid‐mounted fuel tank, weatherproof enclosure and unit‐mounted air‐cooled radiator. However, it is likely that the existing 250kw generator in the IMAX® Theater/Education area has enough spare capacity to be able to take on the load currently served by the 30kw unit. This option would require only the provision of a new automatic transfer switch and the interconnecting feeder and control wiring.


2. Lighting: a. Some fluorescent light fixtures have been upgraded to T8 lamps

and electronic ballasts, but many are still T12 lamps and magnetic ballasts. For energy savings, these fixtures should all be upgraded, where upgrade is possible.

b. Exit signs should be upgraded to LED type to save energy and maintenance costs.

c. Many incandescent light fixtures have been retrofitted with self‐ballasted compact fluorescent lamps, and the plan is for that process to continue.

d. Exterior lighting is generally in good functional condition, and should be expected to function well for the foreseeable future, if maintained properly.

3. Fire Alarm: a. The existing system is in good operating condition, and should be

expected to function well for the foreseeable future, if maintained properly.

4. Security: a. Much, but not all, of the existing access control and security

camera systems are functional, but very limited in capabilities. Technology is 10‐15 years old, and, while technical support is expected to be available for the foreseeable future, there are many state‐of‐the‐art functions available in current systems that could be very useful and render the facility much more secure. Upgrade is recommended at the earliest opportunity.

5. Public Address: a. The system is currently partially functional (automatic

announcements are not currently possible), but replacement component cost is high, and, given the age of the system, increased component failure is expected. System upgrade is recommended in next 5 years.

Evaluations of the mansion: The following is an evaluation of the plumbing, fire protection, HVAC, and electrical systems.

Plumbing: 1. The city has had problems with leaks and metal flaking in the

galvanized and ductile iron water systems. Low water pressure causes


toilet flushing problems. This could be due to piping closure in the galvanized piping system caused by corrosion.

2. The galvanized sewer piping has been problematic and is difficult to clean. The labs on the second floor currently drain to sanitary sewer with no treatment. If chemicals are used in the labs, a neutralization basin would need to be added.

3. The galvanized storm drainage piping has been problematic and is difficult to clean due to the fittings used. The piping for the main lobby balcony has been leaking. The club room has flooded during heavy rains.

4. Plumbing fixtures in the public toilets are in good condition and have been updated to meet ADA. Bathrooms in other areas do not meet ADA and the fixtures are in poor condition. Water conserving fixtures and metering faucets could be considered to reduce water usage.

5. Master Plan Schemes – Plumbing Modifications: a. Wherever existing ceilings will be raised, piping runs will need to

be re‐routed or planned to be exposed. b. If the café kitchen and prep kitchen are used, a new grease

interceptor will be required.

Fire Protection: 1. Systems are in good condition. Additional sprinkler coverage in the

exhibit spaces could be added to meet FM requirements. 2. Master Plan Schemes – Fire Protection Modifications:

a. Wherever existing ceilings will be raised, piping runs will need to be re‐routed or planned to be exposed and sprinkler heads will need to be relocated.

b. Wherever walls are added or removed, sprinkler heads and piping will need to be relocated.

HVAC: 1. The indoor WSHP units are generally in poor shape. The units are 20

to 25 years old, which is at or exceeds their life expectancy. Several units were observed as being not functional, with frozen cooling coils and other maintenance problems. Replacement of these units is planned to happen in a separate project.

2. The closed circuit cooler is 7 years old. This unit has a life expectancy of 20 years; so if properly maintained, it should provide 10 to 15 more years of service.


3. The boilers should be checked for condition, especially the older boiler, to determine their expected remaining life.

4. The boilers are labeled with operating notes that inform the user which boiler is to be used depending on the weather. It should prove beneficial to upgrade the boilers controls to be automated and programmable with current technology.

5. The piping from the boiler and the closed circuit cooler are both connected to the condenser water system that is piped to all WSHPs. The piping system arrangement should be checked closely to make sure it is proper and as efficient as possible.

6. The WSHP system is more energy–efficient than the air‐cooled DX equipment which serves the larger event spaces, yet the WSHP system efficiency is not optimized due to the lack of interior zones. The energy used by WSHP systems is significantly decreased in the winter when simultaneous heating and cooling loads occur, which happens if there are significant interior zones.

7. There are no humidifiers in the mansion. It should be confirmed whether this is a problem with artifacts or building materials.

8. The Theater, Ballroom, and Club Room AHUs are 20 years old, and have reached their life expectancy and should be budgeted to be replaced in the next five years.

9. The ACCUs serving the Ballroom, and Club Room are 12 years old. These units have a life expectancy of 15 years.

10. The ACCU serving the Theater was installed in 2009, so it should remain in service for 10 to 15 years.

11. The indoor air quality in the mansion, especially the large event rooms, is of noticeably lower quality than the 1973/1991 building. The HVAC systems do not appear to be supplied with outside air for ventilation as is required by current codes for mechanical ventilation. There appears to be a problem with moisture penetrating the exterior walls that are below‐grade; this might be a primary reason for deficiencies in the indoor air quality. Also, the west end of the first floor, which serves as the back‐of‐house work space for food catering, has an unclean odor. Much of this is due to the carpet in this area that retains spills and dirt, and is an inappropriate finish in a food service area. In addition to changing the finishes, a combination of introducing outside air and exhausting air in selected areas may also improve air quality conditions.

12. The mansion HVAC system has fewer opportunities for energy saving renovations without changing the system type (WSHP and DX). In


fact, adding outside air will increase the energy use. Short of changing the system type to four‐pipe chilled water/hot water, or variable refrigerant flow, the most achievable ways to reduce energy usage are as follows: a. Replace equipment with newer, more efficient equipment. b. Keep equipment clean and well‐maintained. c. Improve building insulation at walls and roof. d. Add insulating layer to windows. e. Add programmable building management system for scheduling,

monitoring, and data logging. 13. Master Plan schemes – HVAC Modifications:

a. If Kitchen improvements on west end add equipment such as warmers or ovens that require heat exhaust, or add cooking equipment that requires grease exhaust, the duct routing and fan locations have special needs that will need to be accommodated.

Electrical: 1. Some electrical panels in the western portion of the mansion are

original equipment panels and should be replaced, along with their feeders and branch circuit wiring, when those areas are renovated next.

2. Evaluations of other electrical system components are the same as those given for the 1974/1992 Building.


APPENDIX D TO: The Pink Palace Family of Museums FROM: Beverly Sheppard DATE: July 2, 2011 RE: References related to CCA Masterplan MESSAGE:

The Master Plan prepared by Christopher Chadbourne & Associates for the Pink Palace Family of Museums incorporated several statements about conditions that support visitor learning in museums. Although many of these findings are widely shared across research and evaluation studies, the following lists several specific references and long term studies. 1. “Audience research suggests there is greater strength in establishing a well-

defined identity. Such an identity would best emerge from defining overarching interpretive directions to unify the varied subject matter of the museum and to create meaningful intersections between them.” p. 2, Audiences, Learning and the Visitor Experience

The above statement refers to the learning process that is based on expectations and preliminary mental representations. Most visitors will bring a kind of mental map with them to a new experience, such as visiting a museum. Having clear expectations allows them to relate what they experience to a pre-defined framework, thus enhancing the learning opportunities. The best full explanation of this process and the role of a clear “identity” as an advance organizer may be found in: John H. Falk and Dierking, Lynn D. UUUUULearning from Museums: Visitor Experiences and the Making of Meaning UUUUU. (Walnut Creek, CA: AltaMira Press), 2000, pp 113-117.


2. “A critical finding in the evaluation of school visits to museums is the need for logistical clarity.” p. 10

This finding has been repeated in many different studies. One of the most convincing is an unpublished, proprietary study conducted for University Circle in Cleveland, Ohio, by the Institute for Learning Innovation in 2005-6. The study included sixteen museums, twenty-eight schools and more than 600 K-12 classroom visits across two years. Second only to their desire for field trips to be positive and memorable, teachers “wanted programs that ran like clockwork. They noted that learning declines with uncertainty about things such things as arrival logistics, timing, lunch arrangements, and teachers’ and chaperones’ roles.” 100% of the teachers surveyed checked off this requirement as essential to the success of the visit. Cited in: Kim Fortney and Sheppard, Beverly, editors. UUUUUAn Alliance of Spirit: Museum and School Partnerships UUUUU (Washington, DC: American Association of Museums, AAM Press), 2010, p.3. 3. “Many families interviewed in museum research suggest that they look for

experiences they can all get interested in, continue to talk about and even find ways to pursue further.” P.13

The subject of family agendas is well-defined in: Ellenbogen, Kirsten M., Luke, Jessica J. and Dierking, Lynn D. Family Learning in Museums: Perspectives on a Decade of Research, pp.17-30. UUUUUIn Principle, In Practice: Museums as Learning InstitutionsUUUUU (Lanham Maryland: AltaMira Press), 2007 Also, Lynn D. Dierking. The Family Museum Experience: Implications for Research, pp.215-221. UUUUUPatterns in Practice, Selections from the Journal of Museum Education. UUUUU (Washington, DC: Museum Education Roundtable) 1992. 4. “Numerous studies support that exhibits should allow visitors to gather around

them, rather than always in front of them, so they can spark conversation and social engagement.” P. 13

A detailed discussion of the exhibit design implications for families is cited on the website, HHHHHwww.familylearningforum.orgHHHHH in the segment on Rethinking Exhibitions. This section cites the research conducted by the PISEC Consortium, museum educators and researchers from the Franklin Institute, the Philadelphia Zoo, the New Jersey Aquarium, and the Academy of Natural Sciences, whose three-year NSF-funded grant resulted in guidelines often referred to as the PISEC characteristics for family-friendly exhibits. Their work continues to be replicated and expanded through new research.

Documents

Architectural & Exhibit Master Plan Programming · PDF fileANF-Memphis CCA-Boston Pink Palace Master Plan 1/31/2012 TABLE OF CONTENTS Executive Summary 1. Introduction and Building