National Museum of the American Indian at Alexander Hamilton U.S. Custom House 2

National Museum of the American Indian at Alexander Hamilton U.S. Custom House

New York, NY

An important New York City landmark preserved and transformed into a stunning new museum honoring Native American history and culture.

Re-envisioning the historic Alexander Hamilton U.S. Custom House in Lower Manhattan, EE&K designed the George Gustav Heye Center of the Smithsonian’s National Museum of the American Indian prior to joining Perkins Eastman. The preservation effort required the interior of the building to remain intact, so the design team developed an independent domain and distinct identity for the museum working within the original structure. The three-floor museum includes exhibition and public spaces, museum shops, administrative areas, all while accommodating considerable storage and mechanical needs. The museum’s circular planning, natural textures, and varied spaces echo elements of Indian culture and take visitors on a journey from the old world to the new.

Project Facts

  • Client:

  • General Services Administration
  • Size:

  • 85,000 sq. ft.
  • Markets:

  • Arts + Culture, Renovation + Historic Buildings
  • Region:

  • United States
  • Studios:

  • New York