Columbia University GSAPP, Advanced Studio VI, Spring 2011, Parallel MoMA, Studio Critics: nARCHITECTS, Eric Bunge and Mimi Hoang, Partner: Brittany Drapac, TA: Seth McDowell

Why parallel MoMAs? Each museum-goer has unique intentions. Parallel MoMAs create different types of experiences within the unified institution.  As the "fourth finalist" in the 1997 competition for a MoMA extension, we added an 's' to MoMA, creating five distinct experiences while retaining a cohesive sense of MoMA, the institution.  MoMA 1, on the second floor, is entered by a grand set of stairs and organized according to a 45 degree grid for more nuanced exhibits such as an artist retrospective.  An escalator reaches MoMA 2, on the fourth floor, which houses the major works of the permanent collection. Its parallel walls and perimeter passageways create the sensation of the infinite.  MoMA 3, on the sixth floor, is ideal for large-scale works, sculptures, and experimental exhibits. A catwalk constructs views to below, through the lens of the facade’s filtered light.  Three new MoMAs wrap the existing buildings on the south facade: the Pelli tower (1984), the Goodwin and Stone MoMA (1939) and east wing by Philip Johnson (1964). Floors 6-9 of the tower become MoMA 4, and floors 3-4 of the original MoMA, including the east wing, become MoMA 5.