Rubin Museum
of Art
Opened 2004
New York, New York
The challenge for this new museum for a collection of Tibetan art was to transform the former Barney’s department store into six floors of galleries sensitive to the needs of Himalayan Art, and to undo the retail typology of the spaces. Imrey Culbert developed a system of walls typologies based on the Tibetan Mandala, partially isolating the stair and creating needed wall space, while encouraging the visitor to linger. In addition to designing the galleries and casework, Imrey Culbert designed the public entrance, and a new facade that carries the gallery concept to the exterior.
