Background

• The idea for The Shed originated from former New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg’s administration as part of the Hudson Yards Redevelopment Project, aiming to create a dynamic, flexible art space that accommodates different artistic disciplines.

• The most innovative aspect is its telescoping outer shell, a movable structure made of ETFE (ethylene tetrafluoroethylene) panels, which allow it to expand and contract, transforming its footprint based on the event’s needs.

• When extended, the shell doubles the building's size, creating the McCourt—a 17,000-square-foot open-air performance and event space. When retracted, the space beneath becomes an outdoor plaza, maintaining accessibility and engagement with the surrounding public.

• The entire facility is designed to accommodate various artistic disciplines, from concerts and theater to multimedia installations and interactive art. The Shed’s eight-level building includes:

  • The McCourt: a flexible indoor/outdoor performance venue (created when the shell expands).

  • Galleries: two large spaces for exhibitions, installations, and visual art.

  • Griffin Theater: an intimate, 500-seat performance space for concerts, film screenings, and smaller productions.

  • The Lab: a creative workspace for experimental projects.

• Located on city-owned land, it operates as a nonprofit organization, ensuring accessibility by offering a mix of free and low-cost programming.