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DS+R Transforms MIT Warehouse into Architecture School with Matta-Clark-Inspired Cuts

architecture-design · 2026-08-12

The Metropolitan Warehouse in Cambridge, Massachusetts, has undergone a major transformation led by Diller Scofidio + Renfro for MIT's School of Architecture and Planning. Spanning 195,000 square feet, the renovation started in 2018. While the south facade remains unchanged, the north side has been redesigned with five stories of glass curtain walls. The project creatively integrates open spaces by removing sections from five different buildings and suspending new floors. Additionally, inspired by artist Gordon Matta-Clark, circular openings have been added, with removed bricks repurposed as benches. The exhibition opens on September 8, followed by a dedication on October 1 and public access starting October 3.

Key facts

  • DS+R renovated the 195,000-square-foot Metropolitan Warehouse for MIT's School of Architecture and Planning.
  • The building was originally designed by Frederic Pope and completed in 1894, with additions by Peabody and Stearns.
  • The project began with an invited competition in 2018.
  • The renovation preserves the south facade and adds glass curtain walls on the north side.
  • New floors are suspended from the roof beams with steel hangers.
  • The design was inspired by artist Gordon Matta-Clark.
  • The building is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
  • The inaugural exhibition 'Occupancy' will open on October 3 during MIT Future Fest.

Entities

Artists

  • Diller Scofidio + Renfro
  • Ricardo Scofidio
  • Frank Lloyd Wright
  • Gordon Matta-Clark
  • Carlo Scarpa
  • Fred A. Bernstein

Institutions

  • MIT
  • School of Architecture and Planning
  • The Broad
  • Roy and Diana Vagelos Education Center
  • High Line
  • V&A East Storehouse
  • Berkeley Art Museum and Pacific Film Archive
  • Melbourne School of Design
  • NADAAA
  • John Wardle Architects
  • Clemson University College of Architecture
  • Thomas Phifer and Partners
  • Schwartz/Silver Architects
  • Leers Weinzapfel Associates
  • National Register of Historic Places
  • Silman
  • TYLin
  • American Academy of Arts and Letters
  • AIA
  • MIT Future Fest

Locations

  • Cambridge
  • Massachusetts
  • Los Angeles
  • Manhattan
  • New York City
  • Bronx
  • Cornell
  • Melbourne
  • Clemson

Sources