“Frida Escobedo Creates History as the First Female Designer of a Wing for the Metropolitan Museum of Art”

### The Metropolitan Museum of Art Embraces an Iconic Change with Its First Wing Designed by a Female Architect

For the very first time in its 154-year existence, the renowned Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City, commonly known as The MET, is embarking on a pioneering architectural update directed by Frida Escobedo, a groundbreaking architect from Mexico. Escobedo has been selected to create the $550 million Oscar L. Tang and H.M. Agnes Hsu-Tang Wing, dedicated to showcasing the museum’s exceptional collections of 20th- and 21st-century artworks. This initiative not only signifies a pivotal achievement for The MET but also solidifies Escobedo’s stature as an influential figure in modern architectural design.

Scheduled for completion in 2030, the Tang Wing will introduce over 70,000 square feet of exhibition space to The MET’s offerings for modern and contemporary art, representing an almost 50% growth in its current area. The new structure will incorporate numerous enhancements, focusing on accessibility, infrastructure improvements, and enriched visitor experiences, all while respectfully integrating with the museum’s historic essence and design language.

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### A Modern Concept Grounded in History
The Tang Wing will consist of five stories, fitting seamlessly within the museum’s existing 123,000-square-foot space. Its design harmonizes historical preservation with innovative modernity, producing a cohesive visual relationship with the museum’s 1880 wing in height and proportions. One of the striking elements of the Tang Wing is its refined limestone lattice façade, which imparts a sophisticated, contemporary ambiance, elevating the new addition while engaging thoughtfully with The MET’s established architecture.

Within the new wing, a renewed spotlight will shine on the museum’s modern and contemporary art collections. The gallery areas will feature varied ceiling heights aimed at creating ideal settings for a diverse range of artworks, from compact sculptures to grand installations. With a pronounced commitment to accessibility, this project will introduce additional elevators, ramps, and improved movement pathways, ensuring every visitor can navigate the museum comfortably.

Escobedo’s design philosophy emphasizes “connections,” envisioning the Tang Wing as a venue that bridges cultural and temporal gaps, integrating modern and contemporary collections within the wider museum narrative. Regarding her design intention, Escobedo remarked:
> “The wing is in New York, yet connected to the world; it reflects the global essence of this magnificent collection while drawing inspiration from The MET’s unique environment.”

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### A Harmonious Integration of Art, Community, and Nature
Alongside the new galleries, the Tang Wing will feature expanded outdoor terraces, providing sweeping vistas of Central Park. A newly introduced café will enrich the visitor experience, transforming the wing into a vibrant social and historical center. Anticipation surrounds the relocation and expansion of the Iris and B. Gerald Cantor Roof Garden, which will cater to larger events and outdoor displays, all while preserving its cherished status as a cultural landmark in New York City.

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### Celebrating Architectural Excellence: Frida Escobedo
Frida Escobedo’s selection as the designer for the Tang Wing signifies a landmark achievement: she is the first female architect to lead a substantial expansion at The MET. Her portfolio is distinguished by various international designs that effectively blend minimalist styles, cultural themes, and architectural accuracy.

This role highlights Escobedo’s escalating prominence within the global architectural realm. Alongside her work at The MET, she is also engaged in the renovation of the Pompidou Center in Paris. In collaboration with the French architecture firm Moreau Kusunoki, her plans for the Pompidou aim to modernize the famed museum, which is set to close temporarily for five years to facilitate the renovations.

Max Hollein, The MET’s Marina Kellen French director and CEO, praised Escobedo’s insightful approach to the Tang Wing initiative, stating:
> “Frida Escobedo’s remarkably inspired, deeply thoughtful, and dynamic design for the Tang Wing establishes her as one of today’s most significant architects. Escobedo’s sophisticated, modern design reflects not only a profound understanding of architectural legacy, materiality, and artistic expression but also a deep respect for The MET’s mission, collection, and visitors.”

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### A Privately Funded Achievement
The Tang Wing’s $550 million funding is entirely sourced from private contributions, reflecting ongoing philanthropic dedication to The MET’s mission to promote culture, education, and accessibility. The construction of the wing aspires to create a lasting impact by fostering inclusivity, enhancing the museum’s capabilities, and honoring the interrelation of art and humanity across global landscapes.

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### Moving Forward: A Symbol of Innovation
As a world-renowned cultural institution, The MET has always acted as a link between past and present. The Tang Wing venture, spearheaded by Frida Escobedo