Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art selects architect for $170M expansion project
The art museum unanimously selected Weiss/Manfredi as the lead architect for the museum's $170 million expansion project.
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In March, the museum asked for the public's help deciding which of the six finalists had the best design. The six finalists were selected after the museum launched a worldwide architectural competition.
Weiss/Manfredi's concept is aligned with the museum's goals for a dynamic, open and inviting design that will create more spaces to present all forms of art, as well as new opportunities for immersive and creative experiences, the museum said.
The museum's Architect Selection Committee made the recommendation, and the choice was ratified by the Board of Trustees shortly thereafter.
The museum will now begin the months-long process of turning the concept into more specific and detailed plans to meet the long-term needs and goals of the community.
'Weiss/Manfredi's concept absolutely blew us away as it captured the spirit of the museum while offering a bold vision for our future,' said Julián Zugazagoitia, Director & CEO of the Nelson-Atkins.
'Central to our competition was the need to respect the Nelson-Atkins' original, neoclassical building, as well as our beautiful Bloch building, while also bringing something new to our campus. This concept delivers all of that, and we look forward to working with Marion, Michael, and their team to collaborate on an expansion design that keeps our commitment to great experiences with art and forges a deep sense of belonging and connection within our community.'
The competition process was led by an Architect Selection Committee formed of current and former Trustees and Zugazagoitia.
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Weiss/Manfredi's design, which the firm refers to as a 'connected tapestry,' re-establishes a front door for the museum on the north side, opens up the west side with an events and learning lobby along Oak Street—and, through new gateways and paths, makes the northern and southern perimeters more welcoming to the community.
The events lobby will open out to a 'commons' space and a new photography center, allowing glimpses of the original building and landscape.
'We are deeply honored to work with The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art on this transformative project,' said Marion Weiss and Michael Manfredi, Design Partners at Weiss/Manfredi. 'We look forward to collaborating with the museum and community to create a more transparent and welcoming cultural campus.'
The international competition announced in spring 2024 resulted in nearly 200 entries from architects in 30 countries on six continents. The six finalists were chosen to present at the museum in late 2024, and the public was asked to give their input.
'It is anticipated that the expansion will be privately funded,' the museum said. 'Now that an architect has been chosen, design development will commence and will be closely monitored by museum and Board of Trustees leadership.'
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The museum said it will continue to keep the community involved in the process, in particular the many students who visit Nelson-Atkins for its programs and classes.
The museum will host a free, public celebration of the announcement on Thursday, April 24, from 4 p.m. to 5 p.m. in Kirkwood Hall.
Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
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