Gehry’s Guggenheim Museum Bilbao in Spain gave rise to the use of the phrase the ‘Bilbao effect’ and continues to inspire the construction of iconic cultural buildings globally. Planned and designed as a comprehensive, multi-phased proposal, the restoration was carried out in stages based on available resources. This was carefully orchestrated through the museum’s Facilities Master Plan, which was approved as far back as 2004. The interior of the museum required a much more compelling overhaul, which was carried out without shutting the day-to-day functioning of the institution. However, a few subtle changes were incorporated including accessibility ramps, material changes, improved lighting and digital signage. The main facade of the building has been left largely untouched.
Core Project Cross-Section of Philadelphia Museum of Art - Architectural rendering, 2016 Image: Courtesy of Gehry Partners, LLP
