The Art Institute of Chicago’s new Modern Wing, designed by Renzo Piano Building Workshop, includes streetscapes and a new courtyard. The courtyard is built on structure, over museum support spaces below. While not exposed to the elements, the courtyard is open air and covered by Piano’s iconic “Flying Carpet” roof. The design creates a flexible space that can accomodate a variety of uses, from small groups of visitors during the day to large formal affairs in the evening. From its materials to geometry, the overall landscape design complements the unique character of the Modern Wing’s building architecture. Spaces and views are composed to highlight a significant art piece.
