Responding to the site’s steep and complex topography at the base of the Santa Monica
Mountains, the Skirball Cultural Center forms a series of building clusters tucked longitudinally
against the hills. Indoor and outdoor spaces are integrated throughout the complex, creating a
series of gardens, an amphitheater and courtyards.
The Skirball Cultural Center features a museum of Jewish-American experience, galleries
for changing exhibitions, a conference and educational center, a 350-seat auditorium, and
Ahmanson Hall (a multipurpose auditorium). Underground parking accommodates 400 cars and
an additional garage, which is currently under construction, will accommodate 500 cars.
The courtyards and gardens open to views of the hills beyond and further serve to integrate
the building with the natural beauty of the site. The courtyards connect to a sculpture garden
located between the building and the hills, providing a contemplative transition zone between
the natural and built environment.
The building’s cast-in-place architectural concrete frame has stainless steel infill panels and
stainless steel vaulted roofs which reflect the dynamic and changing sky. Exterior concrete walls
are clad with bands of pink-flamed granite.
Client: Skirball Cultural Center
Program: Gallery space (permanent and traveling), multi-purpose hall,
classrooms, auditorium, administration, research library,
conference center, Discovery Center, gift shop, restaurant,
amphitheater, courtyards and gardens, structured parking
Size: 170,000 sq ft
Cost: withheld
Status: Phase I: 1995
Phase II: 2000
Phase III: 2003
Phase IV: 2013
