Dia Museum

 

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A common misunderstanding is that the Manhattan grid is aligned with true north. In actuality, the grid is rotated 29 degrees to the east and creates an interesting spatial overlay that this museum exploits. The museum grows out of a rectangular lot aligned with the Manhattan grid and is a slow, circular path of observation where connections are made through the use of ramps. This initial system is interrupted by an atrium and secondary system of circulation oriented toward true north and cutting slabs and galleries at a 29 degree angle. These diagonal fast paths serve as shortcuts between varying programs and pierce the exterior walls to become vantage points back to the city. Inside the museum the user becomes lost in a whirlwind of complex geometry and these vantage points allow him to become conscious of the dual geometric catalyst.