olson kundig to convert historic warehouse into new arts venue in telluride

first images of telluride arts transfer warehouse revealed

olson kundig has shared the first glimpses of a revitalization project that will transform an existing stone warehouse in telluride, colorado, into a new venue for arts and culture. the building dates back to 1906 but has stood empty for nearly 40 years following a roof collapse in 1979.

designed for non-profit organization telluride arts, olson kundig’s conversion will insert new architectural elements into the existing stone walls of the historic structure, creating an enclosed events space and increasing programming flexibility.

images by olson kundig

a respectful approach

the design, led by the firm‘s principal/owner tom kundig, presents a quiet architectural solution that respects the existing warehouse walls and celebrates the character of the surrounding community. the project adds a new interior structure, preserving the open-air courtyard while introducing enclosed, flexible event spaces, as well as a roof deck with views across telluride and the surrounding landscape.

‘our approach embraces the historic character, spirit of openness and community focus of the existing building,’ explains kundig.‘we want to respect and celebrate the elements of the warehouse that people love, including the generous open space that has become a very special venue for the community of telluride.’

the warehouse was first built in 1906

flexible and adaptable

kundig continues, ‘the main agenda of the design is to be as flexible as possible, allowing telluride arts to choreograph just about any kind of event on behalf of the active, vibrant arts culture that exists here.’

movable, kinetic elements will allow the venue to adapt to host a wide range of events and exhibits, expanding access to arts programming in telluride. these insertions further improve facility operations while reducing the impact of outdoor events on the adjacent residential neighborhood.

‘we want to create a completely flexible building that can be adaptable for all sorts of different artistic disciplines, from music, to film, to art installations, to art exhibitions,’ says kate jones, executive director of telluride arts. ‘we
want it to be a place for creativity to flourish in this very adaptable space.’

‘the transfer warehouse is part of the essential eternal core of telluride culture, literally and figuratively,’ adds penelope place gleason, board chair of telluride arts.

‘the ah haa school, the wilkinson library and the transfer warehouse together anchor our community with central facilities for creative exchange of ideas and dialogue. as more of our small box canyon community is built out and many locals are having to move farther away, it is important for us to know this historic building will be a shared community asset forever.’

project info:

name: telluride arts transfer warehouse

location: telluride, colorado, US

architect: olson kundig