Modernizing a leading art institution

Buffalo AKG Art Museum

Buffalo, New York, United States

The Buffalo AKG Art Museum, formerly known as the Albright–Knox Art Gallery, is currently pursuing a redevelopment and significant expansion of their existing campus.

Led by OMA, Buro Happold has been selected to deliver MEP engineering, IT/AV, security and sustainability services for this expansion, which include the renovation of the existing building as well as the creation of the new 29,000ft² North Building comprising three levels of diverse gallery experiences. The campus expansion also included the creation of additional spaces for public and educational programs to be held continuously throughout the year.

Includes services such as flexible event spaces, an education program, and public outdoor lawns and sculpture gardens.

Comprised of three levels of diverse gallery experiences.

As the sixth oldest art institution in the United States, the renovation of the museum aims to achieve best-in-class resiliency and energy efficiency.

Challenge

As the sixth oldest art institution in the United States, knitting together the legacy of the institution’s existing storied facilities with a bold and daring expansion has been a charge of the team from project inception.

Solution

As we intricately wove new and existing building systems together, Buro Happold strived to help the museum develop solutions for at least another half century into the future. This included preserving priceless works of art while providing exceptional flexibility for an operational program that will continue to grow and adapt with the changing landscape of modern art. Further supporting the vision, the project aims to achieve best-in-class resiliency and energy efficiency for an institution sure to extend its legacy far into the future.

Value

This expansion is the third major undertaking by the institution and is intended to reflect the want of the surrounding community to have a comprehensive cultural and art space. The facility features amenities and services such as flexible event spaces, an education program, and public outdoor lawns and sculpture gardens, while also allowing the museum to more than double their ability to display pieces from their extensive masterworks selection.