Elisabet Ney Museum
1892, 1902
Austin, Texas
National Register of Historic Places, Recorded Texas Historical Landmark, State Archeological Landmark, Austin Landmark
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Key Issues
• A historic finish analysis was completed to determine the character of the interior during Ney's lifetime
• Higher levels of artifact conservation and museum interpretation were defined
• Needs for foundation waterproofing, roof replacement, window repairs, masonry conservation, and building systems replacement were identified in the plan.
• Life safety and accessibility improvements within a historic context were defined.
• A prioritized restoration program and phased of probable costs was tailored to city funding cycles
German born and classically trained sculptor Elisabet Ney immigrated to the United States in 1871. In her quest for a utopian environment, she moved to Austin in 1892 and began construction of this beautiful castle on the banks of Waller Creek, at the edge of today’s Hyde Park neighborhood. The building was originally her studio; Ney slept outside in a tent filled with oriental carpets and her silver tea set.
As part of a consultant team hired by the City of Austin, we developed an Architectural Preservation Plan for the Ney Museum. This effort required close coordination with the Landscape Architecture component of the plan, effective communication with donors, public education, and civic engagement.