Collections

• About the Collections
• Drawings, Prints, & Graphic Design
• Product Design & Decorative Arts
• Textiles
• Wallcoverings
• Library

About the Collections

Cooper-Hewitt, National Design Museum’s collection is international in scope, includes both historic and contemporary design, and extends from one-of-a-kind to mass-produced items.

The collection encompasses the rich holdings of the Museum’s Library, Archives, and four curatorial departments: Product Design and Decorative Arts; Drawings, Prints, and Graphic Design; Textiles; and Wallcoverings. Designers seeking inspiration for new product lines draw ideas from the diversity of the collection. Scholars and students exploring the history of design use the collection as a primary resource. Writers seeking historical authenticity refer to them for firsthand experience of objects. Collectors—novice and seasoned—use the collection to expand their understanding and develop their expertise.

The Design Resource Center, a state-of-the-art study facility, opened its doors in 1998. Housing the departments of Product Design and Decorative Arts, Textiles, and Wallcoverings, the Center is linked to the Andrew Carnegie Mansion by the Agnes Bourne Bridge Gallery. The Library, the Drue Heinz Study Center for Drawings and Prints, and the Henry Luce Study Room for American Art are located in the Carnegie Mansion.