Check out this new Museum for Contemporary Art designed by Swiss architect, Christian Kerez. Part of a larger master plan to revitalize Warsaw, the $91 million museum will house the country’s largest collection of contemporary art, attracting an estimated 800,000 visitors per year to this fast growing metropolis. The museum is situated in the center of Warsaw which demonstrates what Kerez sees as “a powerful statement” by making a cultural institution, rather than a commercial or residential one, rest at the heart of the city.
More images, another video, and more about the project after the break.
The L-shaped museum, which will be situated next to the 230-meter-high Palace of Science and Culture, displays Kerez’ modern style and his emphasis of simplicity and materiality. ”It’s a magnificent work. Avant-garde architecture which is still in harmony with the surroundings – the square, the streets and [Świętokrzyski] park,” said Polish-born architect Daniel Libeskind, who was a member of the jury.
The main display areas rest under grand vaults where the perforated concrete allows dappled light to illuminate the spaces. This is one of Kerez’s signature moves – making a potentially bulky and massive form appear to be light and porous.
Buildings next to the palace will be demolished to make way for the museum, and Plac Defilad (Parade Square), the site of pro-Soviet rallies and demonstrations, will be transformed into a huge city square. ”The new centre is a sign of political change in Poland,” said Katarzyna Redzisz, the museum’s communication officer.
“It was a big surprise; I almost didn’t believe it,” Kerez told swissinfo. “We were really happy with the concept…which is very generous to art and gives a lot of opportunities for exhibitions. It’s also totally flexible.”
Thanks to Lukasz for sharing the project with us!
Credits:
Exterior Animation: Frontop
Interior Animation: Sydney based Atelier Illume
The renderings are as noted in the images, either Atelier Illume or Oslo based MIR.
As seen on swissinfo.
