Construction Timeline

1999
Philadelphia Museum of Art and Reliance Standard Life Insurance Company jointly announce the Museum's commitment to acquire the company's historic flagship building.

June 15, 2000
Museum formally names the Ruth and Raymond G. Perelman Building in a dedication ceremony including city and state officials.

December 19, 2000
Museum launches its 125th Anniversary Campaign to raise $200 million (later delivering $240 million) with its 2001 Fund. Perelman Building renovation and expansion are established as a key priority of the campaign.

January 30, 2002
Museum announces selection of Gluckman Mayner Architects to design the renovation and expansion of the building.

2004
With all code-related variances and approvals granted by the City of Philadelphia, the Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission, the Fairmount Park Commission, the Philadelphia Art and Historical Commissions, and the Greater Philadelphia Preservation Alliance approve final plans for the building.

August 2004
L.F. Driscoll Co., Construction Manager, begins phase I construction: the installation of temporary utilities, the separation of the Annex from the Fairmount and Pennsylvania building wings, and interior nonstructural demolition.

October 26, 2004
Groundbreaking celebration and a Museum salute to leadership donors

January 2005
Excavation begins in rear courtyard to prepare for the Gluckman-designed 59,000-square-foot addition.

September 2005
Erection of structural steel begins.

October 2005
Topping off ceremony

Fall 2006
Target completion date projected for all construction.

Winter 2006–2007
Museum collections and staff to occupy and install newly finished spaces.

September 15, 2007
Ruth and Raymond G. Perelman Building opens to the public.