A refurbished warehouse in the historic Old Town district housed the original (1978) Albuquerque Museum. It served the community well, but by 2000, the museum’s expanding mission demanded more dynamic public spaces, state-of-the art galleries and exhibit spaces, back-of-house facilities, education rooms, and event venues.

The strategy to raise the museum’s voice and strengthen its identity emerged through a three phase master plan that addressed the challenge and completely re-envisioned the museum’s civic presence and purpose. The first phase “urban plaza” lobby and special events space is currently one of Albuquerque’s most popular event venues and its fully accredited traveling exhibits gallery made the museum a cultural destination for internationally acclaimed exhibits; the widely acclaimed “Picasso to Plensa” launched the gallery’s 2005 opening. Citizens from all walks of life flock to the outdoor amphitheater that beautifully accommodates summer jazz and salsa, concerts, and weddings. The second phase furthered the museum’s transformation with continued renovation of the original building including the construction of reconfigured and improved public circulation, history and changing exhibits galleries, and a showcase of the institution’s rich photo archives. It is clear why Mayor Martin Chavez proudly called the museum “one of the most precious pearls on the City’s cultural necklace” – this vibrant and attractive hub has filled a void and provided a broad and inclusive civic destination.