The Herbert F. Johnson Museum of Art at Cornell University

1973, Pei Cobb Freed & Partners, Architects

The massive concrete slab Herbert F. Johnson Museum of Art at Cornell University perches on a 1,000-foot slope overlooking Lake Cayuga in Ithaca, New York.

I.M. Pei, Architect - Herbert F. Johnson Museum of Art at Cornell University

Photo © Jackie Craven

I.M. Pei and the members of his firm wanted to make a dramatic statement without blocking the scenic views of Lake Cayuga. The resulting design combines massive rectangular forms with open spaces. Critics have called the Herbert F. Johnson Museum of Art both bold and transparent.

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