On May 20 the New York City Landmarks Preservation Commission (LPC) unanimously designated the former Whitney Museum of American Art as an Interior and Individual Landmark. The building at 945 Madison, designed by Marcel Breuer and his partner Hamilton Smith, and completed in 1966, is an icon of the Brutalist style in New York City. In the LPC’s press release, Chair Sarah Carroll noted, “Today’s designation honors Marcel Breuer’s groundbreaking vision and ensures that this architectural icon will continue to serve as a premier showcase for world-class art, and be preserved and protected for generations to come.”

As we previously reported, DOCOMOMO US/New York Tri-State led a coalition, in collaboration with Docomomo US, to formally protect the building through landmark designation. Due to our advocacy, as well as the support of six preservation organizations, Manhattan Community Board 8, and numerous interested individuals, the building was successfully calendared in December 2024, had a public hearing in January 2025, and was subsequently designated in May.

This designation allows this important piece of modernism to continue to serve a worthy purpose while also protecting the exterior and such renowned interior spaces as the main lobby, stairwell, coat check, and other public areas. DOCOMOMO will continue to request that the LPC consider designating several of the significant gallery spaces. We look forward to seeing the future of the site under Sotheby’s ownership and the return of art to this Brutalist gem.

Read our past advocacy posts on the (former) Whitney Museum of American Art

Vote to calendar & Public Hearing

Submission of Request for Evaluation/Presentation to CB 8

Sotheby’s acquisition