A Former Carnegie Mansion in New York - Cooper-Hewitt Museum

The Cooper-Hewitt, Smithsonian Design Museum is is housed in the former mansion of wealthly industrialist and philanthropist Andrew Carnegie, just off of Fifth Avenue on the upper east side of Manhattan. Built in 1902, the mansion is an architectural gem and an example of the Beaux-Arts style, which was popular during the Gilded age. It was designed by Babb, Cook & Willard and features opulent details including a grand staircase, ornate decorations, fireplaces and beautiful wood paneling. This was the first private residence in the United States to have a structural steel frame and also the first home in New York to have an Otis elevator.

You can explore the museum’s collection and exhibitions while also enjoying the historic and architectural beauty of the building itself. It is a significant cultural and historical landmark in New York City.

Here is what caught my eye; I hope you enjoy!

The front facade

The front entrance

The entrance hall

The main stairway

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The Autobiography of Andrew Carnegie and the Gospel of Wealth (Signet Classics)

By Carnegie, Andrew

Andrew Carnegie

By David Nasaw

Making Design: Cooper Hewitt, Smithsonian Design Museum Collections

By Brown, Susan

A few of the many fireplaces

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Some of the beautiful wood paneling in the 64-room home the Carnegie’s lived in and also served as Andrew’s office for his philanthropic work after his retirement.

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The mansion’s interior and exterior are well-preserved although the interior walls are may not be visible due to the display walls.

The solarium

The Cooper-Hewitt, Smithsonian Design Museum is dedicated to design, architecture and the decorative arts. The museum houses a diverse collection of objects, including textiles, furniture, ceramics and graphic design pieces.

The Hewitt Sisters, Sarah and Eleanor, were American art advocates and founders of what is today the Cooper-Hewitt Smithsonian Design Museum.

What you should know:

• Unlike other Smithsonian Museums, this one has an admission charge.

• There are public restrooms available.

• Tickets can be bought on-line or in person.

• The museum is self-guided.

• You could spend a couple of hours exploring the museum.

• People are friendly and informative.

Location: 2 East 91st Street, New York, NY 10128

For more information: Cooper-Hewitt Museum