Reinstallation of the American Collection
Yale University Art Gallery,
New Haven, CT (2001)
Exhibit Designer: Stephen Saitas Designs;
Architect: Polshek Partnership, LLC

Yale University Art Gallery

Reinstallation of the American Collection

To re-introduce natural light intelligently and gracefully into the 1920's-era main gallery, Hefferan Partnership used extensive computer modeling to carefully study annual exposure trends in the effort to determine the appropriate transmittance of glazing and shading scrim. Control systems monitor light levels to reduce accent lighting when daylight is sufficient.

By contrast, the perimeter galleries displaying light sensitive decorative arts and special exhibitions exclude daylight and rely on track mounted and internal case lighting.

Integrating daylight presents one of the greatest challenges to the museum lighting designer. Hefferan Partnership strives to maintain the dynamic spectral and temporal aspects of natural light, while carefully controlling light levels based on an understanding of annual exposure trends.