Viñoly's design for the Cleveland Museum of Art
His plan is clear, composed of simple, yet elegant forms, and, most significantly, an intelligent response to the needs of the museum and the community.
Viñoly recognized that the original building, designed by local architects Hubbell and Benes and completed in 1916, should remain the focal point of the expanded museum, describing it metaphorically as a beautiful jewel set within a new ring.
His proposal called for the complete restoration of both this landmark structure and the superb addition on the north designed by Marcel Breuer and completed in 1971, and the addition of two symmetrical wings on the east and west sides.
Together, these new and renovated buildings will provide a significant amount of additional space for the display of works of art, expanded facilities for education, a range of amenities for visitors, and storage and workrooms that will allow for the proper care and safekeeping of the museums collection.
At the heart of Viñoly's design is a great, light-filled courtyard sheltered by a gracefully curving glass roof. This will be central to the experience of the museum, orienting visitors and helping them understand how the building and the collections are organized. It also promises to become one of the most beautiful and impressive civic spaces in the entire city.