This adaptive reuse project revitalizes an old brick building in Harlan, KY, transforming it into a community art gallery focused on local and regional art. As part of the town's efforts to recover from economic decline, the gallery aims to stimulate cultural and social development in the downtown area.

The project stakeholders requested a design that moves away from the traditional "black box" gallery format, asking for a space that also felt like art.  In response, the design team proposed to break apart the box-within-a-box gallery space - pulling apart the interior walls to form dynamic apertures that filter light and provide views inside and out. These walls do more than just serve as a backdrop for art; they actively enhance the experience, engaging visitors with their form and function. Sliding panels in certain areas allow the gallery to be reconfigured, accommodating different exhibitions and community events.

On the exterior, new steel panel cladding redefines the building’s street presence. The bold, dark material contrasts with the preserved brick, signaling a shift in the building’s use while maintaining respect for the structure's historical character and the region’s traditional materials. Inside, this contrast continues, with the raw, tactile brick serving as a counterpoint to the minimalist, white walls of the gallery.

By preserving much of the original building, this project highlights the value of adaptive reuse, honoring the town’s architectural heritage while creating a forward-looking cultural hub. The gallery serves as a vital piece of Harlan’s ongoing effort to revive its downtown, using art as a catalyst for community engagement and economic renewal.