CAFE 2 AT MoMA, NEW YORK, NY - The cafeteria is located on the second floor of the Museum of Modern Art with an entry from the original Goodwin & Stone building and the major space is located within the Johnson addition. The challenges for this project came from the need of feeding thousands of people many of whom might not speak English. Additionally, there was a desire to upgrade the state of the typical cafeteria experience to include more hospitable service and to delete cafeteria trays. The idea behind the Café started with an idea of a huge bar overflowing with fresh food which needed to be modified because of its position within a working museum. A continuous stainless steel bar with rectangular glass boxes (not deli-shaped) display the food and deserts. Wine is also displayed in backlit perforated stainless steel tubes. The customer makes their food selection while in line and then proceeds to the order area which sits in front of the glass walk-in refrigerator displaying prosciutto and cheese in an “artful” way. The food is then brought to the customer by the time they find their seats. The tables were also designed by Bentel & Bentel as communal tables to create an energetic space and also to fit the crowds.
2007 Archi Award, LI AIA
“Archi Awards Honor Excellence.” House Magazine (January/February 2007):152.
“MoMA Returns.” Contract Magazine (December 2004):12.
