American Museum of Natural History

Rose Center - North Side Project

A major component of the North Side project, the iconic Rose Center for Earth and Space represents one of the most significant additions to the American Museum of Natural History (AMNH)’s historic campus. The project involved the demolition of the landmarked Hayden Planetarium and the construction of a new modern glass structure. The dynamic building plays a vital role in furthering the Museum’s scientific and educational mission, and houses the spectacular Hayden Planetarium and Big Bang Theater, Cosmic Pathway, and Hall of the Universe. The accompanying exhibitions explore the 13-billion-year history of the universe and the dynamic features of the galaxies, stars and planets that make up the ecosystem.

In addition to the Rose Center, the North Side project included the Arthur Ross Terrace built over a new parking garage, the Weston Pavilion and the renovation of the Theodore Roosevelt Park.

Role + Responsibilities

Over the last twenty-five years, Zubatkin has had the privilege of partnering with the Museum on its major capital projects and other master planning initiatives. For the Rose Center, Zubatkin was initially engaged to facilitate the selection of the project team and AMNH’s internal project management staff, as well as to coordinate the planning for the enabling work. As the project approached completion, Zubatkin was re-engaged to lead the completion of construction, exhibit installation and project close out. Crucial to the success of the project was the coordination of the work with the existing buildings and infrastructure, as well as maintaining the Museum’s ongoing operations and programs during construction.

Related Projects

  • Client American Museum of Natural History
  • Location New York, NY
  • Size

    335,000 sf

  • Architect
    • Ennead Architects (Formerly Polshek Partnership)
  • Construction Manager
    • Lend Lease

AIA National Honor Award for Architecture, 2002

AIA New York State, Award for Excellence in Design, 2002

AIA New York Chapter, Design Excellence Award, 2001

American Architecture Award, The Chicago Athenaeum, 2001

Business Week / Architectural Record Award, AIA Business Week Magazine, 2000

Time Magazine, Best in Design: 2000

New York Construction News, Best of Award, 1999

The Municipal Arts Society of New York, Bronze Plaque for Excellence in Design, 2000

New York Association of Consulting Engineers, NYACE Diamond Award for Engineering Excellence in Design, 2000

The Concrete Industry Board, Inc. of New York, Award for Design Excellence, 2000