The museum complex includes the Saarinen House, the former residence of architects Eliel and Loja Saarinen, preserved as a prime example of total design.
Cranbrook is often referred to as the cradle of American Modernism due to the influential work produced there during the mid-20th century.
The campus was founded by George and Ellen Booth, who commissioned Finnish architect Eliel Saarinen to master-plan the grounds.
The museum building features a unique 'Art Lab' which allows visitors to engage in hands-on creative projects inspired by current exhibitions.
The 319-acre grounds are part of a larger National Historic Landmark site recognized for its extensive collection of outdoor sculpture and landscape design.
The museum's permanent collection includes iconic pieces by designers like Charles and Ray Eames, who were both connected to the institution.
The building's 2011 expansion was the first major addition to the museum since its original opening in 1942.
Many of the sculptures found throughout the campus were created by Carl Milles, whose home and studio are located on the grounds.
Cranbrook Art Museum is the centerpiece of the Cranbrook Educational Community, a National Historic Landmark campus designed by Eliel Saarinen. The museum building itself is an architectural specimen of modern design, completed by Rafael Moneo in 2011 to expand the original structure. It focuses primarily on contemporary art, design, and architecture through rotating exhibitions. The museum maintains a significant collection of works by Cranbrook Academy of Art faculty and alumni, who have historically influenced American modernism. Visitors can explore the 319-acre campus, which is noted for its integrated landscape architecture and sculpture gardens. The institution functions as both a public museum and a laboratory for the graduate-level Academy of Art. Galleries are organized to encourage dialogue between historical collections and avant-garde installations.
The modern, reflective exterior of the 2011 addition, or the meticulously landscaped formal gardens nearby.
Combine your museum visit with a walking tour of the wider Cranbrook campus gardens.
Check the online schedule for special tours of the Saarinen House, which often require separate registration.
Wear comfortable walking shoes as the museum is part of a large, sprawling campus.
Do not mistake the museum for the separate Cranbrook Institute of Science located on the same campus; they require different visits.
Closed on Mondays and Tuesdays; occasionally closed for installations between exhibition rotations.
Photography is permitted for personal use without flash; do not touch artwork; professional or commercial photography requires prior authorization.
