Berlin architect Daniel Libeskind has been selected to lead the redesign of the Royal Ontario Museum. Libeskind's proposal, called Crystal, was chosen over those presented by Canadian Bing Thom and Italian Alberto Bruno.

The international competition for the expansion of the museum -- which is North America's fifth largest -- originally drew 50 entrants, and was eventually narrowed down to three.

Libeskind, architect of Berlin's Jewish Museum, said his design was inspired by the crystalline forms in the museum's minerals galleries.

"The Crystal (design) transforms the ROM's fortress-like character, turning it into an inspired atmosphere dedicated to the resurgence of the museum as the dynamic centre of Toronto," said the museum.

"It's really going to be one of the most elegant museum buildings that have been built since the beginning of this century," said William Thorsell, president and CEO of ROM.

"You're going to have this very strong conversation between the old and new."

Thorsell did say the architect selection committee's decision in favour of Libeskind wasn't unanimous, but that his design was chosen by a majority.

"Libeskind has been responsible for brilliant and profound works of art and culture," Thorsell added.

Construction is slated to being in spring 2003. The provincial and federal governments will contribute to projected $200-million cost, but most of the funding for the expansion has not yet been secured. The ROM makeover will increase exhibition space by about 40,000 square feet.