The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art has selected WEISS/MANFREDI: Architecture/Landscape/Urbanism as lead architect for its upcoming expansion and transformation. Known for integrating architecture, landscape, and community, the firm’s concept maintains the iconic south lawn view into the Donald J. Hall Sculpture Park.
Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art Selects WEISS/MANFREDI for Expansion Project
This dynamic and inviting design creates more space for art and immersive experiences for all ages. It also re-establishes a front door on the north side, opens the west side with an events and learning lobby, and makes the museum’s perimeters more accessible and welcoming.
Impressed by WEISS/MANFREDI’s creative and thoughtful approach, the Architect Selection Committee recommended the firm. Their vision reflected a deep understanding of Kansas City’s character. After careful consideration, the Board of Trustees approved the selection, and the project will now enter the detailed planning phase.
Collaboration, Community, and Celebration
Director & CEO Julián Zugazagoitia praised the design for respecting the museum’s original neoclassical building and the Bloch Building. At the same time, it offers a bold, forward-looking vision. Public feedback was overwhelmingly positive and aligned with the committee’s impression.
The Board expressed deep gratitude to a number of trusted advisers, including Richard Armstrong, Barry Bergdoll, Karen Christiansen, Arthur Cohen, András Szántó, and the museum’s Teen Council, whose perspectives enriched the process. Malcolm Reading, the Competition Director, noted the international scope of the competition, which attracted 182 firms, narrowing to a shortlist of globally respected architects.
The expansion will be privately funded, with design development closely monitored by museum and Board leadership. Community involvement will remain a top priority, especially among students in the museum’s education programs.
To celebrate the announcement, the museum will host a public event on Thursday, April 24, from 4–5 pm in Kirkwood Hall.
Based in New York City, WEISS/MANFREDI is a multidisciplinary firm known for seamlessly blending art, infrastructure, and landscape. Notable projects include Seattle’s Olympic Sculpture Park, the Women’s Memorial at Arlington Cemetery, and Hunter’s Point South Waterfront Park. Their achievements have earned them multiple awards, including the 2024 Louis I. Kahn Award and the Cooper Hewitt National Design Award for Architecture.
Read the full news release here WEISS/MANFREDI Selected to Design Nelson-Atkins Expansion | Nelson Atkins