Part of LACMA’s $750-million “Building for the Permanent Collection” initiative, the new 347,500-square-foot structure replaces four aging buildings with a unified, future-ready design that spans Wilshire Boulevard. Designed by renowned architectural firm Skidmore, Owings & Merrill (SOM) and built by Clark Construction, the project emphasizes resilience, safety, and cutting-edge design—especially in the face of Los Angeles’ seismic challenges.
Los Angeles, CA – As construction advances on the Los Angeles County Museum of Art’s (LACMA) transformative new facility—the David Geffen Galleries—Encore Building Products, working with MM Systems of Pendegrass GA, is proud to be playing a critical role in delivering advanced seismic protection systems tailored to one of Southern California’s most ambitious cultural projects.
To meet the stringent seismic performance requirements of this world-class museum, Encore Building Products has supplied custom-engineered MM-Moat Systems expansion joint systems that integrate seamlessly with the building’s base isolation strategy. These joints are specifically designed to accommodate both structural movement and the unique demands of a museum environment—balancing pedestrian safety, durability, and the protection of priceless art collections.
Encore’s solutions contribute to a comprehensive seismic mitigation plan that includes triple friction pendulum base isolators, which allow the building to shift gently during an earthquake, absorbing energy and minimizing potential damage. The expansion joint systems supplied by Encore ensure structural continuity across these movement zones, delivering long-term performance without compromising architectural intent or visitor experience.
Installation of these complex systems is being executed by Southwest Specialty Contracting, a trusted industry leader known for precision and craftsmanship. Their expertise has ensured that the expansion joint assemblies are installed to exact specifications, meeting both the engineering criteria and the aesthetic standards required for a high-profile cultural institution.
When completed in late 2026, the David Geffen Galleries will feature over 110,000 square feet of gallery space, along with theaters, education centers, and public amenities—creating a dynamic and inclusive space that honors LACMA’s diverse collections and architectural legacy.
Encore Building Products is honored to contribute to this iconic project, ensuring that seismic safety and structural integrity support LACMA’s mission to preserve and celebrate the arts for generations to come.
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