Cloud Cities, in May of 2012, The Metropolitan Museum of Art had its 15th annual rooftop sculpture done by Argentinian artist Tomás Saraceno who took this as an opportunity to flex his originality and create Cloud Cities: 16 connected, angular domes clumped together like frothing bubbles on the museum’s Iris and B.
Courtesy of Tomás Saraceno
Gerald Cantor roof garden. As Saraceno’s first major commissioned installation in the US, he decided to follow the theme of biology and habitat, bringing science into the world of architecture. This constellation of interconnected modules was meant to encourage the viewers to re-consider the way we experience the environment around us.
Courtesy of Tomás Saraceno
At 54 feet long and 29 feet tall, these modules were made with 20 tons of stainless steel, geometric glass segments, cables, and reinforcements. Inside, there was a small stairway that leads visitors up and into the modules, giving them a chance to really put their heads in the clouds.
Courtesy of Tomás Saraceno
The reflective/transparent surfaces of the geodesic domes created spatial illusions and generated a sense of disorientation for the visitors, but was all around entertaining experience. Saraceno described the sensation of being in Cloud Cities as “a walk in the sky.”
Courtesy of Tomás Saraceno
He also said that his creation should act as a prism to view New York through, considering the amazing views of Central Park that can be seen from Cloud Cities. You can see his creation now on The Metropolitan Museum of Art’s website, in the New York Times, or in the Huffington Post.
Anastasia Andreieva is an accomplished Architectural Projects Editor at Arch2O, bringing a unique blend of linguistic expertise and design enthusiasm to the team. Born and raised in Ukraine, she holds a Master’s degree in Languages from Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv. Her deep passion for architecture and visual storytelling led her to transition from translation and editorial roles into the world of design media. With a keen eye for conceptual clarity and narrative structure, Anastasia curates and presents global architectural projects with precision and flair. She is particularly drawn to parametric and digital design, cultural context, and emerging voices in architecture. When I’m not analyzing the latest architectural trends, you’ll probably find me searching for hidden gems in cityscapes or appreciating the beauty of well-crafted spaces. After all, great design—like great connections—can be found in the most unexpected places. Speaking of connections, because architecture isn’t the only thing that brings people together.