The Met Breuer

Marcel Breuer – the “last modernist” - was at the height of his career in 1966 when he designed the Whitney Museum in New York. The building is considered one of the most significant examples of mid-century modern design in the United States. Following the Whitney’s relocation in 2014, the building has been repaired and adapted to house the Metropolitan Museum of Art’s contemporary art collection. The project restored the mid-century interiors and sculpture garden while clarifying visitor flow, upgrading building systems and creating a new presence for The Met. The project restores the integrity of Breuer’s “close to Earth materials” of concrete, stone and bronze, which Breuer believed become more dignified over time through use. Miriam designed and oversaw the implementation of the meticulous cleaning and repair program, which was executed with a light touch, carefully distinguishing patina from damage. Interventions were designed as a distinct new layer, complementing Breuer’s rigorous design and craftsmanship.