The Museum is housed in the historic former Main Library building in the Civic Center, which was transformed to showcase the expanding collection as well as groundbreaking exhibitions.

The Museum retains the historic architectural lighting elements of the original 1917 building with additional new lighting accentuating the entry façade, plaza and renovated spaces. The architectural lighting adds drama to the public spaces, providing modern, efficient lighting while highlighting the vaulted ceilings, moldings, inscriptions, and stone floors original to the building.

Central to the building are indoor courts with skylights that allow natural light to warm the space and highlight the historic main stair and loggia. Custom fixtures were designed for general lighting and art accent lighting in the Central Court based on an original design created by architect Gae Aulenti. Historic fixtures, original to the building, were renovated and restored with contemporary light sources. The multiple galleries, spread throughout the building use the latest lighting technology.