Architects from the Grimshaw bureau in their projects focus on innovative technologies, which, in their opinion, are designed to make buildings functional, comfortable for people, safe for the environment and efficient from an economic point of view. The Queens County Museum Expansion Project in New York, which completed its first phase in March 2014, expanding the museum to 10,000 m2, is a prime example of this approach.
The museum is located in Flushing Meadows Crown Park, which has been the site of two World Exhibitions (1939/40 and 1964). The museum building originally served as a pavilion for the City of New York at the 1939 exhibition, and in 1946-1950 it hosted sessions of the UN General Assembly (from the founding of the organization to the opening of its own headquarters).
The architects were tasked with integrating the museum into the park and making it clearly visible from the side of the highway passing from the west. The new project was to provide ample space for an enlarged permanent display, temporary exhibitions and social and educational events. In addition, the second phase of the project is due to be completed in 2015 with the opening of a new branch of the Queens County Library in the building.
One of the most notable details of the project was the multimedia west façade overlooking the Grand Central Parkway. The design of the new facade is a metal frame on which glass panels with built-in programmable LED lighting are fixed. Initially devoid of a functional purpose, the new facade became an attraction that lured passers-by with bright illumination, covering the old facade of the building, which, however, was distinguished by good proportions and successfully served as a symbol of the museum.
Noticeable changes have been made to the main overhead light. A suspended structure of frosted glass plates was created to diffuse the light falling on the large central gallery for large exhibits and the adjoining temporary exhibition halls. A flowing glass staircase takes visitors to the second floor, where meeting and relaxation spaces face both the park and the halls.
Renowned for its educational programs and community outreach, the redesigned Queens County Museum has received several new classrooms and ancillary spaces: it has now further enhanced its status as a cultural venue where the art world and society can engage in open and meaningful dialogue.
