Art Institute of Chicago Addition, Concept Sketch Perspective

New wings, additions, and visitors’ centers built in the 21st century reflect evolving cultural discourses and institutional identities. These projects use various strategies to respond to contemporary agendas while respecting the existing structure of buildings. For the addition to the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston, José Rafael Moneo decided not to emulate the institution’s older buildings. Instead, the new structure would allow the MFAH campus to be seen as an eclectic compilation of architectural styles. At the Art Institute of Chicago, Renzo Piano intended for the new wing not only to host galleries but to serve as a connector between Millennium Park and the heart of the existing museum, actively linking it with urban life.