“Small Change - Big Impact” is how the Oakland Museum of California describes the recent garden and café renovation. Through a series of reductive moves, the project opens the Museum to the surrounding neighborhood strengthening engagement and access while supporting the Museum’s mission as a community-centered organization.

The jury found that, with minimal means, this project has effected a profound transformation for the Oakland Museum of California. With the simple gesture of opening the corner of the sculpture garden to the community, the architecture transforms the museum from an institution that could feel cold or standoffish into a real civic treasure.