Preserving History with a Modern Digital Experience

The Whistler House Museum of Art, located in Lowell, Massachusetts, is dedicated to preserving and promoting the legacy of artist James McNeill Whistler, while also supporting the region’s artistic community.

Their original website, built in the late 1990s on the Drupal content management system, had become outdated and difficult for staff to maintain. The design was not mobile-friendly, updates were cumbersome, and the overall user experience did not reflect the vibrancy and sophistication of the museum’s exhibitions, programs, and events.

The museum required a modern, accessible, and visually engaging platform that would clearly convey its mission, enhance navigation, and facilitate easier exploration of exhibitions, events, and membership opportunities.

Tomo360 designed and developed a custom WordPress website that blends historic charm with contemporary design, creating a digital experience that reflects the museum’s artistic and cultural significance. The new website emphasizes ease of navigation, compelling visuals, and streamlined management tools for staff.

Key Features

• Immersive Visual Design:
  A refreshed homepage features striking imagery and a video gallery with an aerial view of the Whistler House, Whistler Park, and Gardens, immediately connecting visitors with the museum’s setting and atmosphere.

• Prominent Notification Banner:
  A custom notification banner at the top of the site allows staff to share timely announcements—such as exhibition openings, weather-related closures, or event updates—ensuring visitors always have access to the most current information.

• Membership Integration:
  A new Membership page enables users to join or renew online with secure PayPal payment integration, streamlining the process for donating and selecting membership levels.

• Dynamic Events Section:
  An Events calendar highlights upcoming exhibitions, lectures, and community events, encouraging engagement and return visits.

• User-Friendly Content Management:
  Built on WordPress, the site enables museum staff to easily update content, add new events, and upload multimedia content without requiring technical assistance.

• Accessibility and Mobile Optimization:
  The website meets ADA accessibility standards and is fully mobile-responsive, ensuring an inclusive experience across all devices.