New Orleans Auction Galleries: Historic Renovation Project by McDonnel

New Orleans Auction Galleries recently completed a full renovation of an historic warehouse building for their new gallery and auction house. The existing 2-story building, located in the prestigious Warehouse Arts District, was customized with:

1st Floor: Includes a large auction space, staff offices, private meeting room, display cases, bar, and new restrooms with retrofitted counters and floors.
2nd Floor: Includes storage space for the auction items, a vault for housing valuables, and an IT area. Also on the 2nd floor is a large back-of-house area for staging auction items, a large cyclorama (endless walls, ceiling, and floors) for custom photography of auction items as well as a darkroom for photo processing.
3rd Floor: A 3rd floor was added to the structure to incorporate an expansive second auction space. The open floor plan includes staff offices, display cases, bar, new restrooms, and a balcony area. The 3rd floor also incorporates a new roof for the entire building.

Renovation Overview

The renovation of the New Orleans Auction Galleries represents a significant investment in preserving the historical integrity of the building while modernizing its functionality. This project aimed to transform a two-story warehouse into a state-of-the-art auction venue that meets contemporary needs.

Key features of the renovation include an expansive first-floor auction space designed for optimal viewing and bidding experiences, complemented by private meeting rooms and staff offices. The design also incorporates modern amenities such as retrofitted restrooms and a bar area, ensuring comfort for both staff and visitors.

Features of the Auction Space

The auction space at New Orleans Auction Galleries is designed to facilitate a seamless auction experience. The layout allows for easy navigation and accessibility, ensuring that participants can engage fully with the items on display.

In addition to the main auction area, the facility includes a large back-of-house staging area for auction items, enhancing the efficiency of item preparation. The inclusion of a cyclorama for custom photography further elevates the presentation of auction items, showcasing them in the best possible light.

Project Timeline and Key Facts

The renovation project for the New Orleans Auction Galleries was executed over a six-month period, commencing in July 2014 and concluding in December 2014. This timeline reflects the meticulous planning and execution required to transform the historic building into a modern auction venue.

With a total square footage of 40,470, the renovated space now accommodates various functions, from auctions to exhibitions. The project was managed by the McDonnel Group, which ensured that all aspects of the renovation adhered to both aesthetic and functional standards.

Location and Accessibility

Situated in the prestigious Warehouse Arts District of New Orleans, the New Orleans Auction Galleries enjoys a prime location that is easily accessible to both locals and visitors. This area is known for its vibrant arts scene, making it an ideal setting for showcasing valuable auction items.

The venue’s accessibility is further enhanced by its proximity to major transportation routes, allowing for convenient access for clients and bidders alike. The surrounding area also offers ample parking and nearby amenities, contributing to a positive overall experience for all attendees.