New Salvador Dalí Museum is both resistant and sustainable

The new Salvador Dalí Museum in St. Petersburg, Florida by HOK is designed to withstand extreme weather conditions as well as reduce its ecological footprint. The work of the renowned surrealist artist is not only proudly displayed at this museum, it also greatly inspired the design of this sustainable, resistant structure.
The rough, unfinished concrete walls of the main structure provide a stark contrast to the sleek elegance of the glass sections, which use geodesic triangulation to mimic the flow of liquids in nature. The reinforced concrete walls are 18 inches thick and can withstand a Category 5 hurricane; the glass sections, though only 1.5 inches thick, can withstand a Category 3 hurricane.

An imposing, 75-foot-tall spiral staircase rises from the lobby, its shape inspired by DNA and the Fibonacci sequence. Made of concrete, the staircase was poured in place.
Hurricane-resistant skylights allow natural light to penetrate the third-floor gallery space, and the glass atrium brings natural light into the lobby. Automated artificial lighting shuts off when the rooms are unoccupied, reducing unnecessary electricity use, while the exterior lighting is provided by high-efficiency LEDs.
The dehumidification system runs on solar hot water, which also provides domestic hot water. Low-flow fixtures help the building conserve water, and condensate is recycled back into the system. High-efficiency HVAC and ventilation systems also help conserve energy.
A cool roof coating coupled with the use of light-colored materials for the building’s exterior reduces the heat island effect and therefore the amount of artificial cooling required. The compact, well-insulated envelope – including the glass sections, which are all insulated and laminated – prevents excessive heat loss and heat gain depending on the time of year.

An effort was made to use low-VOC construction materials. In fact, all the concrete was made with flyash or ground granulated blast furnace slag and 97% recycled steel was used for the rebar.
The museum grounds’ landscaping consists of Florida-friendly and native plants, irrigated with reclaimed water as opposed to drinking water. A stormwater filtration system prevents harmful pollutants from reaching nearby Tampa Bay.
Come enjoy this unique, sustainable museum facility with the world’s largest collection of Dalí artwork, from oil paintings and watercolors to sculptures and much more! 

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