The Drawing Center has long stood as a unique jewel, a testament to the power of line and form, consistently pushing the boundaries of exhibitions and offering intimate and thought-provoking showcases in a landmarked space. But even gems need polishing. Our renovation created three new galleries and provided an accessibility upgrade.  

The Drawing Center needed to grow in place. Aging infrastructure and cramped space limited its programming. We needed to create more room for visitors and staff by using a new second-floor space and ensuring a simple, accessible flow across all three floors. 

The renovation makes every space, from offices to storage to galleries, accessible to artists and curators. The new architectural plan connects a ground-floor bookstore, visitor area, and galleries to offices on the second floor and a renovated basement. The lower level now features an art education room, a conference room, and The Lab, equipped with media systems for exhibitions and public programs. These upgrades provide artists, students, and visitors with facilities to explore the evolving drawing medium into the 21st century.  Exposed beams, stone foundations, and columns added texture, and each gallery has adaptable lighting and acoustics, allowing artists to shape the space to fit their vision. A new entrance with a universal access elevator and a stepped loading dock helps ensure the building can welcome all visitors.  

Every step required approval from the New York City Landmarks Preservation Commission and the Lower Manhattan Development Corporation to serve the client and the SoHo neighborhood.  

The 2012 renovation has transformed The Drawing Center, expanding its capabilities for programming, making it more accessible, and deepening its connection with artists, students, and visitors alike.