The ICA is the first museum to be built in Boston in 100 years. The 65,000 square foot building includes temporary and permanent galleries, a 330 seat multi-purpose theater, a restaurant, bookstore, education/workshop facilities, and administrative offices.

Award-winning architects Diller Scofidio + Renfro designed the ICA, conceiving the building both "from the sky down," as a contemplative space for experiencing contemporary art, and "from the ground up," providing dynamic areas for public enjoyment. The design weaves together interior and exterior space, producing shifting perspectives of the waterfront throughout the museum's galleries and public spaces.

Overseen by New York-based Arup Lighting, the building's lighting scheme takes a systematic approach in order to address the diversity of spaces. "We focused on using a common set of economical tools," explains lighting designer Brian Stacy.

The building incorporates an illuminated facade, lobbies, and exhibition rooms, lit with Selux M100 “Satinlights," so as not to interfere with views across the sea. The lighting is designed to complement, rather than collide with, the contemporary architectural style of the space. The institute is a beacon for the breathtaking work of today‘s most talented artists.