The Getty Center in Los Angeles is set to close for the first time since opening to the public in 1997 for a major modernisation project.
To complete the work, the museum will temporarily close from 15 March 2027, with a reopening planned for spring 2028.
During this time, the Getty Center will enhance the visitor experience, increase accessibility and upgrade energy efficiency across its campus.
“Getty is embarking on an exciting new chapter,” said Katherine Fleming, president and CEO of the J. Paul Getty Trust.
“Our mission has always been to make art accessible to our Los Angeles community and visitors from around the world."
The project will "enhance the visitor experience across the Getty Center campus through reimagined spaces and new offerings, while prioritizing sustainability", she added.
Highlights include revitalised galleries, a redesigned arrival and departure experience, new wayfinding support, an upgraded tram system, and a renovated welcome hall with a new café bookstore and retail experience.
Upgrades across the Getty campus
Also, campus-wide improvements will be made to the institution's buildings, public spaces and utilities, including cell service and wi-fi connectivity.
The project has already started with upgrades to the campus' heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system to improve energy efficiency.
While the Getty Center is closed, the Getty Villa will continue to present a full schedule of exhibitions, public programmes and events.
Getty Villa
The Getty Villa will also introduce a new gallery featuring a selection of paintings from the Getty Center.
Additionally, Getty will open a new programming space on Sepulveda Boulevard in a building now under renovation across from the Getty Center.
The renovation is estimated to cost from $600 million to $800 million, the Los Angeles Times reports.
"We look forward to welcoming visitors back in spring 2028, in time to celebrate the Summer Olympic and Paralympic Games in Los Angeles and experience our more accessible, resilient, and dynamic campus," said Fleming.
Images courtesy of Getty
