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Akron Art Museum 1899 Renovation

 

In the spring of 2025, Summit Construction was selected to provide construction management services for the Akron Art Museum's Create the Future project - a multi-floor renovation of the historic 1899 building and former post office. 

The 21,431 square foot renovation will transform three floors of the 1899 building into a creative hub featuring art exhibition areas, classrooms, offices, gallery space, and the museum's first ever "Idea Machine."

Significant progress has been made since July of 2025 when construction kicked off. Demolition on all three floors has been completed, including the partial removal of the second floor to make way for the two-story Idea Machine. Today, the project is making strides throughout the building. 

The renovation has reached an exciting milestone, with plywood and drywall now being installed across all three floors. This phase marks a major turning point in the construction process, as the building's layout begins to truly take shape. Walls are rising, individual spaces are becoming defined, and the vision for how each floor will function is starting to come to life. 

McDowell Gallery
Inside the future McDowell Gallery on the first floor.
Second floor overlooking Idea Machine
Second floor overlooking the Idea Machine. This open area will be replaced by a glass window.
Third floor offices
Third floor offices for Akron Art Museum staff.
Individual office on third floor
Third floor individual office for Akron Art Museum staff.
Future platform to main musuem
Second floor between the future McDowell Gallery (left) and the Idea Machine (right). This barrier will open up into a platform that connects to the main Museum.
Future location of the Pony Express
The future location of the original Pony Express Mosaic (the 1899 Building was originally a Post Office). This wall is directly across from the elevator on the first floor, with the Idea Machine to the right and the McDowell Gallery to the left. The mosaic will be safely transferred to its new location this spring. 

 

While the new gallery and exhibit spaces are some of the most visible and exciting parts of this project, there is just as much important work happening behind the scenes. Alongside these additions, the project includes significant upgrades to the building's systems, including mechanical, electrical, and plumbing equipment. These improvements are essential to supporting the building's longevity and ensuring it continues to perform well for years to come.

Summit Construction is honored to manage this incredibly exciting project for the Akron Art Museum with our partners at Perspectus Architecture. Stay tuned for more updates and follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram, and Facebook.