SHORT TAKES : Guggenheim Begins Face Lift

The Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum has begun the controversial $32-million remodeling and restoration of its 30-year-old “chambered nautilus” building, designed by Frank Lloyd Wright, and construction of a 10-story “background building.”

The new building on 47th Street will go some way toward remedying the current lack of exhibit space, which has kept the Guggenheim from showing at any one time more than 3% of its collection of about 8,000 works of art. It will have two floors of offices, four floors of exhibition space, one floor for entrance and service, and another for mechanical facilities.

The complex is expected to reopen 18 months from now.