After the controversy surrounding their rejection by San Francisco and subsequent relocation to Chicago, the Lucas Museum of Narrative Arts has today announced a team of MAD Architects and Studio Gang as the designers of their new building in Chicago's museum district near Northerly Island.
The building itself will be designed by MAD Architects, chosen "because of its innovative approach to design and the firm’s philosophy of connecting urban spaces to natural landscapes." In this case, that landscape will be designed by Studio Gang, who will also add a bridge to Northerly Island, an area which they have worked on turning into an ecologically diverse urban park.
"It is a gift to be able to design the Lucas Museum of Narrative Art in a city so rich with architectural history," said founder of MAD Architects Ma Yansong. "I am humbled and honored to be given this opportunity to create a timeless design that moves and inspires people just like Mr. Lucas' collection."
Commenting on the proposed plan to link the museum site to Northerly Island, Jeanne Gang said: "We are excited to build upon our current work and collaborate to create a seamless transition between the Museum Campus and Northerly Island. In keeping with the Northerly Island ethos, our design goal will be to create a combined ecological and urban habitat." The museum is funding this urban link at no cost to the City of Chicago.
George Lucas has previously commented on the decision to move the museum to Chicago, saying: "Choosing Chicago is the right decision for the Museum, but a difficult decision for me personally because of my strong personal and professional roots in the Bay Area. I thank all Californians who reached out to me in support of the Museum."
He said of the new proposals: "I am thrilled with the architectural team’s vision for the building and the surrounding green space. I look forward to presenting our design to the Chicago community." The designs for the new museum are scheduled to be released in late 2014.
VOA Associates will serve as the executive architects.
