Constructing a world-class modern addition

Originally constructed in 1904 for the World’s Fair, the Saint Louis Art Museum was in need of expanded gallery and exhibition space. They retained world-renowned, London-based architect David Chipperfield to design a $110 million, 224,756 SF addition to the Museum, to include new galleries, public amenities, and below-grade parking. The design includes a polished concrete exterior facade that incorporates Missouri river aggregate, creating a strong relationship between landscape and architecture.

KAI served as part of the joint venture team providing construction services for the new museum addition. The team, made up of Tarlton Corporation, Pepper Construction, and KAI (“TPK”) executed Chipperfield’s design using the latest construction technologies, including building information modeling (BIM).

KAI acted as BIM model manager to ensure all disciplines were accurately coordinated into the comprehensive project model. This approach allows for enhanced construction phasing, scheduling and communication, resulting in fewer change orders and Requests for Information (RFIs) and ultimately a smoother process overall. KAI also managed the M/WBE subcontractor inclusion plan, helping to achieve the participation goals set by the Saint Louis Art Museum.