Top 6 Things to Get Excited About When the Studio Museum in Harlem Reopens on November 15

The Studio Museum in Harlem's new building on 125th Street.

The Studio Museum in Harlem opens its modern new home to the public this Saturday, November 15, complete with a Community Day in the plaza across the street.

Designed by Adjaye Associates, the new 82,000-square-foot space dedicated to the work of Black artists replaces an older building that stood at 144 W 125th Street between Lenox Avenue and Adam Clayton Powell Jr. Boulevard.

In advance of the big day, TCU attended a press preview that included a top-to-bottom walk through the new building.

Here are the top six things to get excited about.

1. The art

The Studio Museum's remarkable art collection is the new building's reason for being: from the return of David Hammons' black, red and green "Untitled flag" on the facade, to Glenn Ligon's Me/We neon sign in the lobby, to the rotating selection of work from the permanent collection (think Jean-Michel Basquiat, Faith Ringgold, Kerry James Marshall) across multiple floors.

2. The architecture

The new seven-story space is full of architectural references to the neighborhood, including the Stoop, a set of large, bench-like stairs in the lobby, and a domed gallery meant to evoke a neighborhood church—now exhibiting the light sculptures of Tom Lloyd.

3. Artist-in-Residence Studios

Before it begins hosting its next cohort of artists-in-residence in the spring, a front section of the museum is currently home to "Fifty-Eight Years of Artists in Residence," an installation featuring the work of all those who came before, from Kehinde Wiley to Jordan Casteel.

4. Rooftop views

The museum's rooftop terrace, bordered on one side by looming New York City water towers, is sure to become a destination in itself. Look north and you'll see Harlem landmarks like the Adam Clayton Powell Jr. State Office Building; face south and you'll see local church spires framed by the impressive midtown skyline.

5. Studio Store

Just off the ground-floor entrance, the museum's store includes monographs; puzzles, candles and calendars inspired by the art and neighborhood; plus must-have Studio Museum merch.

6. Studio Cafe

Not yet open during the preview, the cafe on the lower level will be operated by local restaurant Settepani and will provide a much-needed spot for a pick-me-up.

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