The Metropolitan Museum of Art, affectionately known as The Met, has recently unveiled exciting renderings of its forthcoming $500 million modern and contemporary art wing. This groundbreaking project marks a significant milestone in The Met’s history, as it will be the first wing designed by a woman, architect Frida Escobedo. Scheduled to open in 2030, the Oscar L. Tang and H.M. Agnes Hsu-Tang Wing will enhance The Met’s collection of 20th- and 21st-century art, offering an innovative space for visitors to engage with modern masterpieces.
The new wing will increase gallery space by nearly 50%, expanding The Met’s ability to showcase a broader range of contemporary works. While it will maintain the footprint of the existing wing, its design will harmoniously blend with The Met’s architectural history, ensuring a cohesive visitor experience.
Met’s Architectural Innovation
Frida Escobedo’s visionary design incorporates a limestone “celosía,” creating a stunning lattice effect that allows sunlight to filter in while protecting the art from overexposure. This thoughtful approach enhances the atmosphere within The Met, transforming the visitor experience throughout the day. The use of floor-to-ceiling glass will not only connect the new wing to the existing structures but will also provide breathtaking views of Central Park and the Manhattan skyline.
The new gallery spaces will feature varied ceiling heights, accommodating both intimate and large-scale installations. This versatility is crucial for The Met, as it seeks to present contemporary art in innovative ways. The inclusion of a 1,000-square-foot café on the fifth floor, complete with rooftop views, will provide visitors with a serene space to relax and reflect on their experiences at The Met.
Met’s Accessibility and Visitor Experience
One of the primary motivations behind The Met’s new wing is to address longstanding accessibility issues. The existing layout has been criticized for its confusing arrangements of elevators and staircases, making it challenging for visitors to navigate. The new design aims to create a more intuitive flow, ensuring that all guests can fully enjoy The Met’s vast offerings without obstacles.
By moving the popular Iris and B. Gerald Cantor Roof Garden to the fourth floor, The Met will expand this beloved space from 7,500 square feet to nearly 10,000 square feet. The new roof garden will incorporate landscaping inspired by Central Park, designed by Thomas Woltz of Nelson Byrd Woltz Landscape Architects. This will not only enhance the aesthetic appeal of The Met but also provide a tranquil escape amidst the bustling city.
Looking Ahead
Construction on The Met’s modern wing is set to begin in 2026, with a highly anticipated reopening in 2030. This ambitious project reflects The Met’s commitment to remaining at the forefront of cultural innovation. As Max Hollein, The Met’s Marina Kellen French Director, stated, the new wing will allow The Met to present contemporary art in exceptionally compelling and scholarly displays.
The Met’s investment in this new wing underscores its role as a vital cultural institution in New York City. By modernizing its spaces and enhancing accessibility, The Met is ensuring that future generations can appreciate the rich tapestry of artistic expression that the museum has to offer.
24-Hour Screening of “The Clock” at MoMA
