Built in 1891 by the philanthropist Andrew Carnegie, Carnegie Hall immediately became the home of the New York Philharmonic and, by extension, one of the most prestigious music venues in the world. It presents about 200 concerts every year. This restoration and renovation posed an especially exciting challenge, given the building`s landmark status, a demanding construction schedule, and users` memories and expectations for America`s most venerated concert hall. An extensive restoration of Carnegie`s original details celebrates the hall`s rich history. New details—custom lighting fixtures, railings, graphics and a new marquee—which evoke the spirit of the original design, announce late twentieth century improvements without compromising the building`s historic character. Phases I and II included the new lobby, newly-created Kaplan Rehearsal Space, and completely renovated Main Hall and Weill Recital Hall, which together demonstrate how carefully-designed public spaces can range from the ceremonial to the intimate. Newly developed circulation systems facilitate transitions from public entry and gathering spaces to the performance halls. The design has transformed this late nineteenth century hall into a twenty-first century facility.
