Smithsonian selects historic building for Latino museum

The Smithsonian Board of Regents has formally designated the Arts and Industries Building as the location for the National Museum of the American Latino, ending an extended search for a permanent site. The structure, originally constructed in 1881, will undergo comprehensive renovation and modernization to serve as the museum's home.

By repurposing the existing historic building, the Smithsonian circumvents the requirement for congressional approval that would normally accompany the construction of a new facility on the National Mall. The approach allows the institution to move forward with its plans while preserving one of Washington's landmark structures.

The National Museum of the American Latino previously opened a preview space in 2022, offering visitors early access to exhibitions and programming while work progressed on identifying a permanent location. The museum had been without a dedicated home despite growing recognition of the need to preserve and showcase Latino cultural heritage and historical contributions within the Smithsonian's portfolio.

The selection of the Arts and Industries Building represents a significant milestone for the museum, which will now begin the process of detailed renovation planning and implementation to transform the 19th-century structure into a modern, fully functional cultural institution.