Hosting a meeting among the vistas of the Davis Mountains in West Texas would surely be inspiring. To that end, the Museum of the Big Bend recently completed an expansion that doubled the museum’s square footage and created spaces for private events. The museum, on the Sul Ross State University campus in Alpine one hour north of Big Bend National Park, showcases exhibits that highlight the history, people, and landscape of West Texas.
“The Museum of the Big Bend is looking to educate about the history and art of the Big Bend, while providing a captivating space showcasing the natural beauty of the region,” says Rebekah Antrosio, the museum’s activities coordinator.
The 10,000-square-foot Emmett and Miriam McCoy Building was dedicated at a reception in late June and includes three galleries and an events center with indoor-outdoor space that can host up to 300 people. Larry Speck at Page architecture firm designed the contemporary structure—the exterior of the building is clad in Corten weathered steel so the patina it develops over time will match the rust color of the original stone from 1937. “We have an on-site caterer available for events, as well as a catering kitchen,” Antrosio says. “We have a state-of-the-art [audiovisual] system with capabilities for presentations, movie screenings, music, and more.” Meeting-goers will also be treated to a breathtaking panoramic view of the Davis Mountains.
