The Philadelphia Museum of Art has announced May 7th as the grand opening date following a major renovation endeavor led by Frank Gehry's team. Called the Core Project, the transformation represents two decades of planning, design, and construction of 90,000 square feet of revived and newly created galleries and public spaces as well as major infrastructure investments to make the museum's landmark 1928 building ADA-compliant and energy efficient.
"What we have achieved through the completion of the Core Project represents the work of many hands, from architects and engineers to steel workers and stonemasons," commented Timothy Rub, the George D. Widener Director and Chief Executive Officer. "The value of Frank Gehry’s brilliant plan for the renewal and improvement of this great building will be clear for everyone to see and appreciate. It both honors the past, respecting the character of this great building, and at the same time offers a compelling vision of the future."
The museum selected Gehry as the design architect in 2006, and work on the Core Project got on its way in 2017. The museum already opened completed segments in the following years, including a new cafe and restaurant, the historic North Entrance and a new North Lobby, education studios, a main store, espresso bar, and a restored section of the stunning Vaulted Walkway.
3 Comments
Is that Pre-Columbian reference on the steps? Hangouts with Chichen-Itza Post-Moundern and Philly Cheese Steaks at the museum.
Wouldn't the more obvious reference for the "Great Stair Hall" be the Rocky Steps, out front?
That probably is the more obvious reference; I hope Gehry adds the railings to meet code, it’s worth it now.
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