OMA's Visionary Expansion: A Conversation with Shohei Shigematsu on Blurring Architectural Boundaries at the New Museum
The New Museum, originally a SANAA-designed structure of stacked, opaque boxes enveloped in a metal mesh, first opened its doors in 2007. Even then, its design hinted at a future need for expansion, primarily to alleviate the spatial limitations posed by its vertical layout and restricted footprint. Fast forward to March, and the museum proudly revealed its much-anticipated extension, a collaborative effort by OMA's Shohei Shigematsu and Rem Koolhaas. This new, angular, and subtly recessed companion building not only doubles the museum's display capabilities but also profoundly reimagines its interaction with the city and its relationship to the seminal SANAA creation by Kazuyo Sejima and Ryue Nishizawa.
The genesis of this architectural endeavor can be traced back to the original SANAA building, which, despite its innovative design, presented challenges related to internal circulation and a compact urban site. The verticality and introspection of the initial structure set the stage for a thoughtful intervention that would address these constraints while enriching the museum's overall presence. Shigematsu's design responds to this by introducing a contrasting yet harmonious form that fosters a new dialogue between the museum and its surroundings. The deliberate choice to expand rather than merely renovate speaks to a broader vision of urban integration and enhanced public engagement, allowing the institution to evolve with its growing needs and ambitions.
During the press launch, Koolhaas articulated his perception of the project, stating it was conceived "not merely as an enlargement but as a harmonious counterpoint or an essential complement." Shigematsu further expounded on this idea, explaining their design intention to create "a duo composed of two distinct yet intrinsically linked edifices. One manifests as more vertical and inward-looking, while the other presents itself as more horizontal and outward-focused." This architectural dialogue between the old and new structures exemplifies a nuanced understanding of urban development, where the addition serves to unlock new possibilities for interaction and experience, transforming the museum into a more expansive and accessible cultural landmark.
This innovative expansion by OMA, led by Shigematsu and Koolhaas, represents a significant milestone for the New Museum. By doubling its exhibition capacity and fostering a more dynamic relationship with its urban context, the project underscores a forward-thinking approach to museum architecture. The design's success lies in its ability to simultaneously honor the legacy of the original SANAA building while boldly charting a new course for the institution's future, creating a richer, more engaging cultural destination for visitors and the city alike.