The New-York Historical Society has started constructing an 80,000-square-foot expansion to house the new American LGBTQ+ Museum.
Designed by architecture firm Robert A.M. Stern Architects (RAMSA), the institution’s new wing will open in 2026 – in time for the USA’s 250th anniversary.
The five-storey structure, called the ‘Democracy Wing’, will complete the museum’s complex on Central Park West. It will provide additional space for educational programmes and storage, as well as a new exhibition gallery, courtyard and rooftop garden terraces.
“As construction begins on our new wing, we are fulfilling a vision set into motion in 1937 by the trustees of New-York Historical Society, who had the foresight to purchase the lot adjacent to our building, knowing that our growing collections and evolving programs for scholars, students, educators, and the public would someday need room to expand,” said Louise Mirrer, New-York Historical’s president and CEO.
“As we look ahead, our new wing will serve as a beacon for democracy education, a powerhouse of inclusive history, and a home for history enthusiasts of all backgrounds and perspectives. We look forward to seeing Robert A. M. Stern Architects’ design, which was crafted with extraordinary skill and sensitivity, come to realization.”
The top floor of the expansion will serve as the first-ever home of the American LGBTQ+ Museum, a partner institution dedicated to the lives and contributions of LGBTQ+ Americans.
While the Democracy Wing is under construction, the American LGBTQ+ Museum will work with New-York Historical to create programming in the existing building and outdoor spaces.
“Over the past four years, our partnership with New-York Historical has grown stronger and as we enter into this next phase of the building project together, we are hopeful and inspired for the years ahead when the American LGBTQ+ Museum will finally have a home,” said Ben Garcia, the American LBGTQ+ Museum’s executive director.
Expanded space for education
“We look forward to further shining a light on our evolving histories in our own voices, as we envision a world in which all people work toward and experience the joy of liberation.”
On the second floor of the expansion will be the Tang Academy for American Democracy will allow the New York museum to dramatically increase the amount of students it welcomes each year from 3,000 to 30,000.
“It’s a privilege to work with the New-York Historical Society on this expansion of its landmark building, enabling it to extend its broad and vital mission to a growing audience that ranges from local schoolchildren to international visitors,” said Robert A.M. Stern, founder and senior partner of Robert A.M. Stern Architects.
Lead image courtesy of Alden Studios for Robert A.M. Stern Architects
