Several museums throughout the city are looking at some massive expansions to help accommodate the needs of visitors as well as residents. Here are a few of the expansions taking place.
American Museum of Natural History
Following approval from the Landmarks Preservation Commission last October, the American Museum of Natural History is getting started on its $340 million expansion plan. After demolishing three of its buildings, the museum will get started on the construction of the Richard Gilder Center for Science, Education and Innovation designed by the Studio Gang and Davis Brody Bond. The new wing is set to open in 2020.
The Frick Collection
The Frick Collection chose Annabelle Selldord last October to take the lead on its expansion efforts. With the help of the preservation experts at Beyer Blinder Belle, the expansion will involve opening the second floor to the public for the first time while creating a new gallery space and preserving the gardens. The design is expected to be unveiled later this year or sometime in 2018.
The Hispanic Society of America
The Hispanic Society of America began its $15 million renovation process last December. The two-year renovation project, which is being completed under the guidance of Maria Romanach Architects, will involve upgrading the building’s infrastructure, restoring parts of the overall structure and making it more accessible. The project, which is made possible by contributions from the Manhattan Borough President’s Office, the Parks Department and the City Council, is expected to be completed in the fall of 2019.
Metropolitan Museum of Art
The Metropolitan Museum of Art announced plans for a $600 million expansion in the spring of 2015. Following financial difficulties, the plans were put on hold and the museum says the David Chipperfield-designed plans will not be put in place for another six years. Meaniwhile, the museum will be replacing its aging skylights as well as the roof above its European paintings gallery.
Museum of Modern Art (MoMA)
The Museum of Modern Art has already started to move forward with its expansion plans, which will be completed in three phases. The first phase of the Diller Scofidio + Renfro-designed expansion will involve replacing the Bauhaus Stair and opening the east lobby. During the second phase, the main lobby and gift shop will be revamped, while the final phase will include the construction of new galleries where the former American Folk Art Museum was once located.
Studio Museum in Harlem
Studio Museum in Harlem will soon be getting a major upgrade with the help of designer David Adjaye. To increase its space, the museum will construct a new five-story building at its current location on West 125th Street. The $122 million building is made possible by contributions from the city and the Ford Foundation. Construction is expected to get started later this year.
The Tenement Museum
The Tenement Museum will unveil its new 10,000-square-foot facility in just a couple of months. Located above its gift shop at 103 Orchard Street, the new space will feature a visitor’s center and classrooms as it recreates the homes of past residents.