In 1991 the Guggenheim Museum leased three floors of raw industrial space in Soho’s landmarked Cast Iron Historic District to expand its exhibition capacity. Working with the design of Arata Isozaki for the 22,000 sq. ft. of the exhibition and retail space, we sought to retain the unique identity of the original structure and create fluid open spaces within strict environmental and conservation guidelines. Bordered by over-scale windows, the high-ceilinged spaces were punctuated by the rhythm of cast-iron columns along the 200-foot length of each floor. Using these inherent qualities and minimizing the construction of partition walls, we preserved the original character of the space: large floors with quality of light characteristic of manufacturing buildings.

The staff offices were located directly above the exhibition space and occupied 12,000 sq. ft. on the third and fourth floors.