Miami Beach Library and Arts Center

Construction date: documented 1930*

Current name:

Bass Museum of Art

Architect:

Russell Pancoast

Builder:

John B. Orr

Style:

Art Deco.

Monumental structure; symmetrical front facade with side wings and later additions; oolitic limestone on original building; bas-relief panels and elaborate ornament; bas-relief panels above the primary entryway sculpted by noted Gustav Bohland; decorative cornice; park setting.

Open to the public:

Yes.

Historical Summary:

The Bass Museum of Art was originally designed as a library for the city of Miami Beach by Russell Pancoast, famous architect and grandson of John Collins, after whom the park is named. When the needs of a library outgrew the space of the building, a new library building was constructed and opened in 1962. In 1964, the building was opened as the current Bass Museum of Art after many improvements, housing the collection of John and Johanna Bass.

Status of Historic Designation:

Designated at National level : Miami Beach Architectural District, 1979
Designated at Local level : Museum Historic District, 1987

Associated Files:

Architectural Description:

This is a 2-story museum in the Art Deco style built in 1930. The structural system is concrete block stucco. The foundation is pile. Exterior walls are oolitic limestone. The building has a flat roof clad in galvinized concrete. Windows are aluminum fixed. The primary entryway to the museum is located on the east facade facing Collins Avenue and the Collins Park. The entrance is recessed into the building by three large arch openings. The double glass door is located in the center. There is an addition. North and west wings were added in 1950, and an additions in 1963 & 2001.

* Date source: City of Miami Beach Building Department records

Description generated by RuskinARC^™.

Located in:

2111 Collins Ave Miami Beach, Florida USA

Miami Beach Library and Arts Center

Construction date: documented 1930*