June 1, 2009
Architect: Jean Nouvel
Date: 2005
Location: Madrid, Spain
We approached the Reina Sofia from the plaza on the opposite side of the new addition. From this side the only visible signs of the addition is a pair of elevator towers.
Proceeding around the building the addition comes into view in all its bright red glory. The addition is a series of buildings around a covered triangular courtyard.
On top of one of the buildings is an observation patio that provides views down into the courtyards and out to the surrounding city. This patio is accessed from above by escalator.
In one of the buildings is a cafe that sits underneath the new auditorium. This building also contains some of the most interesting bathrooms on the trip.
The new addition to the Museo Centro de Arte Reina Sofia was created in order to free up space withing the existing building for artwork and therefor serves as the new bookstore, library, and administrative offices.
Tags: great bathrooms, Jean Nouvel, Madrid, museum