Courtesy of Renzo Piano Building Workshop and Cooper, Robertson & Partners
Yesterday, the board of the Whitney officially voted to break ground on their Renzo Piano designed meatpacking wing next year. This is a big step in the history of the Whiney which has been plagued with failed attempts to expand on their uptown location. In addition, the board announced that once they move into their new downtown location, the Breuer building would be shared with another arts institution such as the Met. For more: Whitney Museum Plans New Building Downtown
The Pompidou Museum‘s new outpost in Metz, France was inaugurated today by French President Sarkozy and will open to the public tomorrow. Designed by famed Japanese architect Shigeru Ban, the local government is hoping that the new museum will have a “Bilbao Effect” on the region, a term referring to the impact that the Guggenheim Bilbao had on the local economy of Bilbao, Spain. This 72.5 Million Euro project is expected to bring 200,000 visitors to the region over the next year. For more on the topic: Guardian: Metz hopes rub of Pompidou’s ‘magic lantern’ will bring tourists and NYT: ‘Smurf House’? ‘Chinese Hat’? Museum Intrigues
Meier's model village, with the Getty Center in foreground. (Photo: Scott Frances/Courtesy Richard Meier & Partners)
The Richard Meier Model Museum is officially reopened for the summer running through August 27th. Tours can be arranged through Richard Meier & Partners Architects at 212-967-6060. By way of A/N Blog
For years we have been wondering what they are going to do with the space. They finally decided. Wednesday evening the board approved plans to build a 16 story $353 million University Center. It includes house lecture halls, an auditorium, academic spaces, student lounges, stores and a 600-bed dormitory on the top nine floors. For more: NYT: The New School to Build a Multipurpose, 16-Story Building
Also check out: NYT: Bold Brass and Glass, and the World Inside on Display
