The Neue Staatsgalerie was the result of an international design competition for an addition to an existing gallery building, won by architect James Stirling. It incorporates typological elements from the old building as part of its response, reinforced by choices of materials and forms that reflect a Postmodernist desire to connect with the historical context. However, these traditional elements are juxtaposed against others that use strong vibrant colours and a glass—and—steel vocabulary to respond to contemporary idioms of architectural design. The overall design brings these heterogeneous elements from different architectural traditions together into a cohesive whole. A series of open spaces separated by different—level accesses and ramps creates opportunities for public gathering at the front of the building, as well as offering pathways for people to cut through the complex and catch glimpses of the gallery's sculpture court. Through these strategies the design helps to integrate the institution with its surrounding urban context.