After opening a small art gallery on Ridge Ave 10 years ago, business owners Tina Rocha and Michael Kowbuz jumped on the chance to purchase the building next door. After exhibiting the works of hundreds of local artists and artisans, they knew that it was time to expand their space. Although the neighboring building was dilapidated and in dire needs of a renovation, they had a vision, and set out to create the perfect addition to Cerulean Arts.

The space had fallen into a state of disrepair, after being abandoned for years, so before construction could even begin, we had to clear out debris, flooring, ceilings, and windows.

After the space was clean, we began by demolishing the set of stairs in the back of the building. This created a clear and open venue. A new staircase was built in the breeze way. The stairs lead to the second floor, which in the future, will be comprised of six apartments for artists who plan to exhibit work in the gallery. To make the space safe for public use, it required the installation all new electrical, mechanical, security, and safety systems.

After technical installations, new partitions were strategically placed to create a workroom in the back of the gallery, as well as lavatories in the front. The demountable partitions were used to define different exhibit areas, but allow the gallery to remain as a single space instead of six separate rooms.

After the walls came the new gypsum wallboard ceiling, which is painted, you guessed it, Cerulean Blue. The suspended acoustical ceiling that lines the main corridor of the space provides extra spotlight for artwork, while doubling as cover for the mechanical fixtures beneath.  The new track light fixtures are movable, and allow the owners to spotlight any piece of are they are exhibiting in the space, without worrying about wall placement or size. A new glass storefront, along with new windows and doors in the front and back, allow natural light to permeate the space.

Stop by at Cerulean Arts if you find yourself in Philadelphia! The new addition is open and exhibiting artwork now! To find out more, visit them at www.ceruleanarts.com