Wisconsin Historical Society shares preliminary rendering of new history center

The Wisconsin Historical has shared a preliminary architectural rendering of its new history center as design on the project accelerates. Designed to be a welcoming beacon of inspiration and exploration, the new center set on Wisconsin’s Capitol Square in Madison will reflect a modern approach to sharing history.

Stewarded by the Wisconsin Historical Society in partnership with an architectural and design team of Continuum Architects in association with SmithGroup and Ralph Appelbaum Associates, the five-story building with stacked terraces will offer views in all directions and more than double the exhibition space of the current museum.

The rotated building form looks beyond Madison to connect with all of Wisconsin physically and symbolically. The lenticular facade gives the building depth and movement, revealing new perspectives as your vantage point changes. The building’s materials, while not finalized, will be a celebration of local materials, drawing from Wisconsin’s rich history of craftsmanship, industry, and innovation, according to a news release.

The public is invited to learn more by attending “History Happens Here: Discussing Wisconsin’s New History Center,” a three-part series of virtual conversations, the first of which will be held at 6 p.m. on April 12. Society leadership will share project updates and answer questions.