After relocating its administrative offices offsite, the Kemper commissioned IAA to expand its art galleries and gift shop. The existing space consisted of a network of small rooms accessible only through a narrow, nondescript entrance. The existing gift shop opened onto the museum’s main atrium, but its long, narrow shape and small sales counter at the rear confounded customers and prevented effective merchandise display.
The existing space was completely demolished, allowing for a new large gallery and entrance. This reconfiguration increased exhibit space by 50 percent. The new gallery ties in seamlessly with unaffected spaces, as well as the museum's original vision for a fresh, clean, minimalist aesthetic. The existing gift shop was enlarged to accommodate a new sales desk and display case. A series of both fixed and movable product displays, along with recessed shelving standards allow the gift shop to continually renew itself, while maintaining a clean, modern image. IAA also designed custom shelving, jewelry cases and modular storage units with colored leather inserts to incite consumer interest.
