The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art in Kansas City, Missouri has shared designs by six architecture firms shortlisted for a major expansion.
The institution is currently holding an international design competition, the first stage of which attracted 182 teams from 30 countries.
Taking part in the second stage are: Kengo Kuma & Associates (Tokyo), Renzo Piano Building Workshop (Genoa), Selldorf Architects (New York), Studio Gang (Chicago), Weiss/Manfredi Architecture (New York), and WHY Architecture (Los Angeles).
“These six concept designs articulate six unique visions of a new and even more dynamic Nelson-Atkins,” said Evelyn Craft Belger, chair of the museum’s board of trustees.
Julián Zugazagoitia, director and CEO of the museum, said: “We asked for bold, inspiring moves that also respected the existing museum campus and I’m so happy to say we’ve received them in these initial designs.
“Each is a fascinating response to a complex project brief, together they bring myriad perspectives.”
Winner to be chosen in spring 2025
From the above competition shortlist, a winner will be selected in spring 2025 to develop a new 61,000-square-feet addition, or additions.
The team will also renovate parts of the original Nelson-Atkins building, and refresh the outdoor campus.
Highlights of the project could include a main entrance and welcome foyer, a complete photography centre, new featured exhibition galleries, learning spaces, a theatre for digital art and immersive programming, and a restaurant.
Concept designs by the shortlisted studios are on display in a free exhibition at the Nelson-Atkins and in an online gallery.
The public is invited to comment at the exhibition or through the portal.
The exhibition, titled Building Belonging: Designing the future of the Nelson-Atkins, is open through 1 June.
Craft Belger said: “We encourage our community to visit the exhibition and share your thoughts – which proposal best realizes your aspirations?”
The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art cares for a collection of more than 42,000 art objects, and is surrounded by a 22-acre sculpture park.
Images courtesy of the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art, lead image credit: Kengo Kuma & Associates
