Donald Judd's Restored Marfa Architecture Office To Reopen September 2025
The late designer and architect, known for his minimalist, industrial aesthetic, purchased acres of property in Marfa, TX starting in the 70s.
Summary
- The Judd Foundation will reopen Donald Judd’s Architecture Office in Marfa, Texas, in September 2025, following an intensive restoration project.
- The restored space, which was previously damaged by a fire, will feature a new working exhibition and a living space with art from John Chamberlain and Alvar Aalto.
Following an intensive restoration process that began in 2018, the Judd Foundation is set to reopen Donald Judd’s Architecture Office in Marfa, Texas, to the public in September. The project is a crucial juncture in the Judd Foundation’s long-term plan to preserve Judd’s buildings in Texas, aiming to maintain his permanent living space and offices.
The Architecture Office, one of eleven Judd-related buildings in Marfa on the National Register of Historic Places, will provide the Foundation with programming venues, as well as accommodations for visiting researchers and staff. The years-spanning restoration was interrupted by a fire in June 2021; however, since then, the Foundation has progressed to the final phase, including the reinstallation of the building’s collection in mid-2025.
Judd arrived in Marfa in the 1970s before embarking on a decades-long process of acquiring and renovating industrial and commercial sites to house artwork and studio space. Judd began purchasing downtown Marfa properties in 1973, culminating in“The Block.” The full city block included large U.S. Army hangars where Judd installed artwork. Judd continued his initiatives through the early 90s, when the Architecture Office was bought.
The latest developments aim to realize Judd’s core belief that the preservation of art and architecture is the preservation of history. Along with meticulously revitalizing the building’s facade and interior, the renewed efforts also incorporated sustainable materials and energy-efficient systems, ranging from solar panels, insulated windows, and passive cooling.
Additionally, future visitors will gain access to a new working exhibition featuring Judd’s architectural models, plans, and furniture, as well as a living space on the second floor. This new space will feature a permanent installation of six paintings by artist John Chamberlain and furniture by legendary designer Alvar Aalto.
The public opening is slated for Saturday, September 20, 2025. Visit the official Judd Foundation website for further information on the event and future programming.
