Salvador Dali Museum

One of the greatest surrealist painters of any generation, Salvador Dali’s efforts were recently commemorated in the opening of a museum in his honor. The museum located in St. Petersburg, Florida is a 68,000 square foot space which boasts the largest collection of the painter’s work. Just as stunning as Dali’s artwork is the architectural design of the space which also had to be mindful of the region’s yearly hurricane situation. Both paying tribute as well as ensuring intelligent and functional design were two important issues that required addressing. The museum’s design is made up of two juxtaposing elements, a “treasure box” made of unfinished concrete with a glass atrium that allows natural light in. Dali’s personal interest in spirals are notable throughout the space. The project was achieved thanks largely in part to the efforts of HOK.