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PROJECTS Chopin & Paderewski 2010 The Paderewski Room Display Design Conservation Assessment Program (CAP) for the Polish Museum of America Maestro Award Establishment
		The Paderewski Room Display Design

		Image credit: Agnes Otworowski, computer rendition of the elevated section of the room, based on CAD drawings
				Image credit: Agnes Otworowski, computer rendition of the original historic display cabinet crossection with archival lighting and membranes implementation, based on CAD drawings


		The design of the Paderewski Room Display was developed to preserve the Maestro’s possessions which were granted to Chicago’s Polish Museum of America, shortly after his death in 1941. The Museum’s director, Mieczyslaw Haiman, gladly received this property by Paderewski’s sister Antonina. Among the entrusted objects were Paderewski’s last practice Steinway piano, the pen that Paderewski used to sign the Versailles Treaty, jewelry, letters, documents, every day use objects and furnishings of his last living place, the suite at the Buckingham Hotel in New York city. The Paderewski Association presented the display design development proposal in 2008 to the PMA. The ultimate goal of this project was to ensure proper safety and security of all the artifacts according to the highest levels of archival standards as well as to preserve the room’s original architectural artwork from 1937. The design proposal included the following recommendations:

				DESIGN CREDITS: Dennis Novak, interior and display design Margaret Wygoda, CAD drawings Agnes Otworowski, computer renderings based on CAD drawings *Andrzej Dajnowski,* preservation consulting Stan Bernacki, project coordinator Ron Steinberg, digital display consulting Jerzy Chlopek, upholstery conservation consulting
				Image credit: Margaret Wygoda, crossection of a display cabinet, CAD drawing. The image indicates the placement of LED light source, laminated white opaque safety glass layer preventing the display area from direct light exposure, and openings for air flow.
		To establish a complete collection inventory along with a comprehensive conservation plan and exhibition options. The historic display cabinets be fitted with archival frames, mounting systems, safe LED and UV protective lighting distribution, and environmental monitoring elements without altering the beauty of original millwork. The room’s plaster crown moldings be repaired where necessary and finished to match the existing composition, texture and color. Areas of decorative ceiling murals and stencil work where plaster and paint were lost, would be conserved and in-painted. The implementation of new technologies such as projected digital imagery, sound and light, to be carefully designed and integrated to enhance the interpretation of the collection. The overall design proposal outlined the requirements of proper monitoring for theft, fire, humidity and temperature.
		The design project was completed in 2009 crediting the generosity of professionals who performed their work at reduced rates or donated their time free of charge. We would like to express our gratitude especially to Dr. Bronislaw Orawiec, M.D. for a generous donation, and to all the Polish and American artists and artisans who donated their works during our three annual fund raising auctions “Luxuries Befitting a Maestro” in 2006, 2007 and 2008, the volunteers who worked tirelessly with auction logistics, and the PMA staff.
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