Enhancing access and resilience at a cultural hub for art and nature

UMLAUF Historic Preservation, Expansion, and Unification Plan

UMLAUF Sculpture Garden and Museum wanted to expand access to art and nature by developing a comprehensive plan for this cornerstone of Austin’s cultural fabric. Our team collaborated with UMLAUF on the plan and provided integrated strategic planning, architecture, landscape design, and community engagement.

The resulting Historic Preservation, Expansion, and Unification (HPEU) Plan envisions a fully accessible, eight-acre (three-hectare) landmark. This plan unites the historic 1985 homestead of artist Charles Umlauf, the 1991 sculpture garden, and the surrounding natural landscape into one cohesive experience.

The planning process centered on harmonizing three principles: sustainability and resilience, community, and legacy. Sustainability and resilience help steer decision-making. Community guides the plan toward providing an accessible and unified site. Legacy seeks to preserve the historic zone and amplify art education opportunities.

The HPEU Plan addressed sustainability holistically through six key impact areas: health, energy, carbon, ecology, water, and resilience. A whole life carbon study determined that 150,000 kilograms of carbon dioxide equivalent (kg CO2e) could be saved through the reuse of existing structures, onsite photovoltaics, and carbon sequestration. The team developed a stormwater strategy for irrigation of nearby sculpture ponds. And the proposal offers a path to net zero energy.

Carefully connecting previously inaccessible areas to the museum and sculpture garden, the plan prioritizes a seamless, accessible site-wide user experience. Improvements will accommodate diverse programming, large gatherings, expanded exhibitions, and a wider range of workshops and community events. Respecting the natural ecosystem, the design supports a harmonious integration of new and existing elements while preserving the UMLAUF’s spirit of exploration.

With a clear, actionable framework, the HPEU Plan will guide UMLAUF’s growth, deepening its impact on future generations and solidifying its place as a vital artistic and recreational destination.