This is a large public space with a ramp down to the cinemas and up to the galleries. In raising the issue of the evolutional nature of MoMA's campus, Concept A accepts each building phase as evolution expressed. The zoning envelope, itself a consequence of building density and light, is incised, creating internal light. The volume is built out to the allowed floor area of 216,000 square feet, offering some loft galleries with exceptionally high volumes. Staff offices are relocated in the former gallery floors.
All work spaces receive natural light from the original facade and a few selective cuts from above.
The deep cuts could contain all intake air, exhaust grilles, etc. The public lobby connecting garden views with 53rd and 54th streets has true urban proportions. The vertical character of Concept A affords a public roof garden at the top of the building with fine urban views. In the cutting concept the potential of natural light is introduced into many of the galleries. This would be a nonglaring, diffused natural light, bounced off ceilings through the use of specially shaped baffles.