About the Project
Why is this expansion and renovation necessary?
The Mattatuck Museum has been an important and beloved cultural cornerstone for the Greater Waterbury area since 1877. Its dual focus on art and history makes it a rarity among museums. Through its art exhibits and history displays, as well as a host of programs for children and adults alike, the Mattatuck has earned its reputation not only as a beacon of learning and creativity, but also as a community gathering place and the prime guardian of Waterbury’s story.
In order to continue its offerings for Waterbury and the region, the Mattatuck must evolve and improve. Planning for this capital project began with the Museum’s 2014 Strategic Plan. During the nearly yearlong process, the Board explored many scenarios with a goal of improving the Museum visitor’s experience while also empowering the Museum to achieve its educational mission. The planning process resulted in the Board’s commitment to reimagining the current space in order to meet the institution’s goals and play a key role in Waterbury’s economic growth by increasing visitation to downtown.
Who is doing the work?
The Museum engaged the architectural firm of Ann Beha Architects (ABA) to undertake a space use survey and to present options to reshape the Museum to be a welcoming, inclusive, and enriching community anchor. Following the 2015 renovation of the Museum’s galleries and performing arts center, the Museum Board contracted with ABA to develop a plan to re-envision the Museum. The Museum has contracted with New Britain-based Downes Construction who will be the Construction Manager at Risk (CMAR) for the project. ABA and Downes have worked together on several projects including both phases of the expansion of the New Britain Museum of American Art.
When will construction occur?
Renovations to the existing building and construction of the addition will begin in April 2019. Construction is scheduled to take 12-15 months with the grand re-opening scheduled for the summer of 2020.
Will the Museum still be open?
Yes! During construction the Mattatuck Museum will operate a temporary museum exhibit at the historic Rose Hill mansion, located at 63 Prospect Street. In addition to tours of the Mattatuck collections on view, a special exhibit on Rose Hill will be on display.
Where will Museum programs take place during construction?
The Museum staff plans to offer a series of special programs and events throughout the construction period that will happen throughout the City including lectures, tours, pop-up exhibits, and other surprises for members and visitors. A grand opening event at Rose Hill is also in the works. Details will be provided in the near future.
Where will the Museum offices be?
During construction, most staff will be in temporary offices at the historic Rose Hill mansion, located at 63 Prospect Street.
About Our Future
How will this project benefit Waterbury’s economy?
The project strikes a positive economic development note for downtown Waterbury by adding an estimated $1 million to the local economy each year following its completion. As an industry that provides jobs and generates revenue through admissions, rentals, and café and shop sales, the new Museum will be a cornerstone of regional tourism.
What will change for visitors to the Museum?
This plan allows the Museum to implement an exciting vision that includes two new educational studio spaces, allowing for an increase in school tours, family programs, and adult studio classes. It also includes a new elevator that is better equipped to accommodate large-scale, high quality traveling exhibitions; additional exhibition space; and new preparatory and storage space for collections. Visitors can expect the same high-quality programs and exhibitions in a friendlier, more welcoming space designed for the visitor experience.
How will this project benefit the Mattatuck Museum?
In addition to improvements for Museum visitors, the expansion will provide a new entrance; dedicated museum shop, café, and community spaces; and an outdoor roof terrace overlooking Waterbury’s historic green. These spaces will not only be great visitor amenities, but they will also increase the Museum’s ability to generate income through sales and rentals.
The renovation of over 10,000 square feet of existing space within the Museum allows for the enhancement of educational programs and exhibition offerings, greater access for scholars to archives and library materials, and renovated office spaces. The project also includes enhancements to HVAC, climate controls, and fire suppression systems.
About Giving Opportunities
What is the campaign fundraising goal?
The Museum is seeking to raise $8 million to complete this project, which includes funds for design, construction, relocation, fundraising, and fixtures, as well as a contingency fund. The Committee is asking for the support of the Greater Waterbury Area to complete the campaign. Gifts of any size from $50 to $500 to $50,000 will bring the Museum closer to its final fundraising goal.
Are there naming opportunities?
Yes. Naming opportunities are available for different ranges of gifts.
What types of gifts are acceptable?
The Museum welcomes gifts or pledges of any amount. You may choose to make a multiyear pledge with smaller gifts over five years or to give a single gift. We accept cash gifts, wire transfers, and stock gifts.
Is my gift tax deductible?
Gifts are tax deductible to the full extent of the law. The Mattatuck Museum’s Tax ID is 06-0443990.
What about matching gifts?
Donors are strongly encouraged to inquire about their employer’s matching gift programs. Each program matches a donor’s charitable gift, often doubling or even tripling the original donation.
I make an annual donation to The MATT; isn’t that enough?
Thank you for your past and continuing support of the Museum! You have been instrumental to getting us where we are today so that we can take on this project. Our capital campaign funds are separate from our operating funds, and both membership and annual fund gifts are essential for our day-to-day operations during construction and after the completion of this project.
This campaign gives our supporters a unique opportunity to secure the Museum’s legacy for future generations. By making a gift to the campaign, you are investing in the Museum’s vision to be known as a vibrant destination inspiring visitors from New England and beyond.