Midway Contemporary Art Garage (MCAG) is an adaptive reuse development of a former limousine garage, transformed into a non-profit art facility. Situated near the Mississippi River in Minneapolis (USA), the project is adjacent to a larger long-term city initiative to revitalize the local post-industrial landscape over a span of 100 years. Embracing a social-ecological transformation approach, MCAG follows a phased concept that encompasses various stages: (1) Adapting and renovating the existing building, (2) converting the outdoor parking area into a park and rain garden, and (3) expanding the library, teaching, and residency spaces. Accordingly, the design of MCAG highlights the transformative process, acknowledging its importance alongside the eventual outcome.
This thinking is an integral part of what defines Midway Contemporary Art and how they operate. Founded 20 years ago, this non-profit organization has been dedicated to supporting emerging artists within an international context. With a growing number of supporters, Midway Contemporary Art has expanded both in physical space and purpose, incorporating a workshop, a library, and a residency alongside their gallery space. As a result, they relocated to various industrial sites, starting from a former fabrication plant, then to an unused billboard production warehouse, and eventually settling in a vacant machine shop. Through these transitions, Midway Contemporary Art has established its expertise and commitment to a culture of adaptability and transformation, showcasing their skills in repurposing and revitalizing unused spaces. A story that continues with MCAG.
After: Exhibition Space © Caylon Hackwith
Before: Upper Level © Caylon Hackwith
Before: Lower Level © Caylon Hackwith
Existing Garage Building © Caylon Hackwith
Phase 1: Renovation, Adaptation and Preparation for Phase 2 © Atelier Tata
Historical Postcard