Field Operations, a prominent landscape architecture firm recognized for its significant contributions such as New York’s High Line, is officially joining the design team tasked with reimagining the Dallas Museum of Art (DMA).
This ambitious undertaking, which is positioned with an initial budget of $150 million to $175 million, is being led by the Spanish architecture firm Nieto Sobejano and is currently in the design phase aimed at better integrating the museum within the Arts District environment.
In a statement, the museum expressed enthusiasm about Field Operations joining the project, acknowledging the firm’s strong international reputation and extensive experience in local contexts.
“Field Operations is a highly recognized firm with international reach, supported by extensive experience working within local contexts,” the DMA stated. “The DMA and Field Operations have a clear philosophical alignment with the overall design intent for the future of the Museum.”
Field Operations brings experience from their previous projects in Dallas, including the well-crafted West End Square park, which was developed by the nonprofit Downtown Parks Conservancy, founded by Robert Decherd, a notable figure in DallasNews Corporation’s history.
James Corner, the founding partner of Field Operations, expressed enthusiasm about the new collaboration, stating, “Field Operations is thrilled to join the DMA design team. Our goal is to forge stronger connections with the Arts District and Klyde Warren Park while developing dynamic public spaces that build community through art, culture, nature, and civic engagement.”
Prior to Field Operations’ selection, the Dallas-based SWA Group served as the landscape architect for the project. However, following the retirement of Chuck McDaniel, who led the design efforts for SWA, the DMA opted to pursue a different direction.
Field Operations was chosen from a competitive selection process that included three other finalists: Texas-based Ten Eyck Landscape Architects, Hocker—responsible for the museum’s Eagle Plaza—and Cambridge-based Reed Hilderbrand, who previously renovated the museum’s Fleischner courtyard.
The reimagining project presents unique challenges, particularly in creating an engaging atmosphere between the museum and the adjacent Klyde Warren Park. Additionally, the team must tackle the redesign of the underused lawn that currently fronts Ross Avenue, alongside renewing the relationship between the museum and its sculpture garden designed by the renowned landscape architect Dan Kiley, which is currently in disrepair.
These physical challenges are compounded by an administrative vacuum. The museum is presently without a permanent director following Agustín Arteaga’s departure last year, which presents obstacles in both leadership and fundraising efforts as the project transitions from the planning stage to implementation.
Currently, the DMA has not released any details regarding a timeline for appointing a new director or for unveiling a revised design and budget for its expansion efforts.
image source from：dallasnews
