Case Study | Tampa Museum of Art

The architect of the Tampa Museum of Art (TMA) envisioned a "jewel box of art" with reflective walls that would connect the building with its surroundings — an urban park with a picturesque riverfront location.

McNICHOLS® Perforated Metal brought the vision to life. Clad in Perforated Metal panels, TMA is an architectural landmark in downtown Tampa, Florida. The double layer of Perforated Metal creates a moiré effect and adds to the building’s distinct, geometric look.

Anodized and clear-coated for a satin polish finish, the panels resist corrosion and require little maintenance, despite the variable weather conditions of the location. Each panel has a straight row of round holes with three-inch diameters set one inch apart. Altogether, the façade features nearly 4,000 panels and a total of 1 million holes.

The facility broke ground in 2008 and debuted in early 2010. It joined a children’s museum, a photography museum and other buildings — as well as a riverfront walkway, a playground and significant green space — to create a family-friendly destination known as the “Waterfront Arts District.”

TMA’s facade provides a visually appealing backdrop for events held at the park throughout the year. LED lights positioned between the layers create colorful light shows after sunset.

With its inspired design and choice of materials, the museum appeals to patrons, park visitors and passersby alike. The 66,000-square-foot structure has won awards for its architectural design and has become a well-known part of Tampa’s urban landscape.