The Museum of Modern Art's expansion project and Museum tower: A study in the use of air-rights

This paper examines the use of air-rights by New York City's Museum of Modern Art as a method of expanding the museum into a combined-use, income-producing facility. Through examination of the project events and interviews with key personnel, a comprehensive documentation of the project is presented. The project and its results are traced from conception to completion, including the formation of the Trust for Cultural Resources. An assessment of the Museum's current administrative, financial, physical, and programmatic status is given. The results of the project render the conclusion that the use of real estate and air-rights can accomplish positive results for a cultural institution.