The Nelson-Atkins invites you to contribute to exciting new visions for our planned expansion. Building Belonging: Designing the future of the Nelson-Atkins is a free exhibition showcasing design concepts for the museum’s expansion from six world-class architectural firms.

View the gallery of finalists’ designs here.

Fostering community

This significant project began with an important need: to provide more and different art experiences and enriching programs for all ages. New interactive spaces and enhanced amenities mean additional opportunities for our community to connect — with extraordinary art, at cultural celebrations, or simply over coffee.

Building Belonging is one critical pillar of our capital campaign, representing an evolution for the Nelson-Atkins as we continue to serve today’s guests while anticipating the expectations of future generations.

A global call

In the fall of 2024, the museum launched a global competition to find an outstanding architect-led team to design the expansion. From nearly 200 submissions, six finalists were selected: Kengo Kuma & Associates (Tokyo), Renzo Piano Building Workshop (Genoa), Selldorf Architects (New York), Studio Gang (Chicago), Weiss/Manfredi Architecture (New York), and WHY Architecture (Los Angeles).

Although each firm offers a unique interpretation for the expansion, all are grounded in the museum’s mission, architectural heritage, and role as a cultural gathering place for the Kansas City region.

Contribute your voice

This expansion represents your aspirations as our community - and is not possible without your input. After viewing each firm’s concepts in the exhibition, we’ll invite you to share your thoughts.

Feedback submitted before March 30 will be used as the museum selects a firm, which is scheduled to be announced this spring. We will continue to review all feedback received after that date to inform the final design as this landmark project progresses.

This is your opportunity to help define the next chapter of the Nelson-Atkins and how you see yourself reflected here. Together, we will realize a museum for all.

Location: Gallery 113