NORFOLK, Va. (WAVY) — The Chrysler Museum of Art is nearing the completion of its $30 million Perry Glass Studio expansion. The redesigning and reimagining of the Norfolk-based studio at 245 Grace St. is on track be completed next month, with the project led by Work Program Architects and Hourigan. The development was made possible through a $55 million capital campaign backed by 300 supporters from the Commonwealth and the city of Norfolk. Phase 1 of the expansion added an additional 24,000-square-feet to the facility, adding more workspaces and classrooms. Phase 2 is focused on the remodeling of the original Perry Glass Studio design. "So the renovation was where the original demonstration and all of the work was done in that area," said Robert Crawshaw, Work Program Architects project architect. "The effort there is more focused on compartmentalizing the spaces so that they can have classes simultaneously. And then we've added an outdoor hot shop." The Perry Glass Studio is now recognized as a hub for glassmakers of the world, garnering both national and international attention. But the glass-blowing community has only scratched the surface of the studio's offerings. Reps say the new design will help create more opportunities to connect with the community. "I think the best feature is the ability to walk completely around the artists as they're working," Crawshaw said. "So you're not getting a static view, but you can stand literally on top of them and watch as they make their art." A standout component of the construction to note is that it was built with coastal resilience in mind. The new renovation is four feet above the existing building and located on the parameters of the floodplain. "So this is a space that is rare," said Robin Rogers, Perry Glass Studio program director. "We have a few peers in the field, but not that many in the country. And what we offer is a space for people to experience glassmaking, but also through the museum and the collection experience." Chrysler is one of two comprehensive art museums to house a Glass Studio in the U.S. The other is the Toledo Museum of Art. The Chrysler Museum of Art will host a grand opening celebration for the Perry Glass Studio March 23-30. The celebration will feature several events, performances and appearances of artists from around the world to showcase the facility's new features.