The new Frost Art Museum was designed by internationally recognized architect Yann Weymouth of Hellmuth Obata + Kassabaum (HOK). The 46,000-square foot facility opened in November, 2008.

The structure features a soaring three-story glass atrium entrance and a dramatically suspended staircase leading to the second and third floors containing over 9,000 sq. ft. of exhibition space. Three of the nine galleries are dedicated to the permanent collection, while the remaining six galleries will feature temporary exhibitions.  Among various interior design highlights is the prominent use of natural daylight in the galleries. Large “leaves” or “petals” are constructed to diffuse ultraviolet by preferentially scattering light to the walls.  This unique gallery lighting was designed by ArupLighting.

Ample storage room for the collection in the new building allows proper space for conservation, research and preparation of artwork.  On the ground floor the Kenan-Flagler Family Discovery Gallery and Museum Terrace serve as the heart of the Museum’s educational and community outreach.  Also on the first level visitors will find the Steven & Dorothea Green Multi-Purpose Auditorium and Lecture Hall, the Dahlia Morgan Members’ Lounge, the café and museum shop.

The realization of a first-class facility provides increased accessibility to the visual arts to FIU's multicultural student body, the growing local population and Miami’s visitors. The new museum is destined to become the cultural heart of the campus and an essential part of Miami’s growing arts community. On its tranquil lakeside site, the new building frames the "Avenue of the Arts."  Accentuated by selected works from the Museum’s outdoor sculpture collection, the Avenue of the Arts connects the Museum, the Wertheim Performing Arts Center and the Management and Advanced Research Center (MARC) on the University Park campus.