Time Sensitive Shohei Shigematsu on Why “Memorable Space” Matters
Mar 25, 2026
Shohei Shigematsu, Japanese-born, New York–based partner leading OMA’s NYC studio, known for the New Museum extension and Casa Wabi pavilion. He talks about making “memorable space,” designing buildings that feel city-like and open-ended. They explore museum-as-community, collaborations with artists and fashion, and how cultural identity and craft shape unexpected, long-lasting architecture.
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Design For Programmatic Synergy To Extend Lifespan
- Design buildings to foster strong program-to-space synergy to ensure longevity through use and maintenance.
- Shohei argues iconic buildings last when their physical form and user activities are in high‑level sync so they are loved and maintained.
Whitney Extension Taught A Hard Lesson
- Early in his career Shohei was project architect on the Whitney extension in his 20s, learning how sensitive museum additions next to icons can be.
- Their cantilevered concrete proposal preserved a brownstone, created three-era layering, but post‑9/11 risk aversion hindered progress.
Extension That Reveals And Respects
- The New Museum extension aimed for nuanced synergy: reveal parts of the existing SANAA building while remaining independent and respectful.
- Shohei used setbacks, aligned floor levels, and a metallic laminated glass to balance transparency, monolithic presence, and contextual dialogue.
