The Frick Collection Expands

Originally designed by Thomas Hastings of Carrère and Hastings in 1914 as a residence for Henry Frick, the building has undergone a couple of expansions and alterations since John Russell Pope first turned it into a museum in 1935. A small expansion occurred in 1977, but most recently Davis Brody Bond enclosed a formerly outdoor loggia to create the New Portico Gallery. While the gallery is a modern intervention that incorporates large panes of glass overlooking the courtyard on Fifth Avenue, the proposed addition that would terrace to six stories is more in keeping with The Frick's Beaux Arts architecture; the institution calls it "an architecturally respectful addition" to the east of the existing building.

The expansion would occupy the site of the 1977 expansion and add approximately 42,000 square feet (3,900 sm) of space containing galleries, an expanded entrance hall, additional library space, new classrooms, a 220-seat auditorium, more office, and updated conservation laboratories, not to mention a rooftop garden terrace for museum visitors. The space would allow The Frick to handle the increased attendance that has actually forced them to turn people away for a number of events. Before moving forward with construction, the project first needs approval from the New York City Landmarks Preservation Commission.