Category

Region

Museum of Harmony

Museum of Harmony

Category
Daylight investigations - Region 3: The Americas

Students
Safa Alazari

School
Boston Architectural College

Country
United States

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Design Testament:

This monument and museum is a testament to the power and importance of societal diversity. Water is an essential ingredient of all humans alike, it is our unifying element, the glue that bonds us, vitalizes us, unites us, and makes us all equals. Each section or museum represent a distinct and unique community that is an integral part of the whole society. Each group is dedicated to showcase the journey of a social group and their struggle towards inclusivity, visibility, and integration to the bigger whole. The blocks are the ultimate full form that these groups came to be, solid, robust and carries its own weight and shape versus the liquified smart glass-structure, which is a representation of their tumultuous journey towards their ultimate manifestation. A movement that flows and gains momentum until it sublimates and earns its own mass and shape. As we can see here in the main renderings of the exterior and the interior of the main atrium/ amphitheater that this museum is divided into four main sections where each section represents a struggled group. From this token, the study of daylighting for this project was essential! For being the main element that completes any picture, what if this picture is about human struggle! Besides achieving healthy and welcoming environment it is also integrated in the concept itself to stimulate spiritual and majestic emotions within the visitor’s soul, and to emphasize the majestic presence of each monument. And that were all achieved by this cross-formed smart glass fluid form to allow daylighting to flow effortlessly deep within the building environment from all directions, with respect to sun glare by utilizing smart glass system for its heat and glare control abilities. In another words, this museum is a combination of four micro-museums unified to act as one museum.

Floor Plans & Circulation:

The visitor approaches the site by ascending through continuous ramp until she/he reach a point 12’ (3.6m) above the site, moving forward by crossing the bridge which leads to the main entrance of the museum. After entering the museum, the visitor moves forward and pause, to feel the majestic & spiritual quality of the natural-lit main atrium (which emphasizes the necessity of the concept). The micro museums are all connected via spiral ramp surrounds the main atrium, which is not just element of continuous circulation, but also part of the museum’s concept of connection and unity). As the visitor navigates through this ramp which can serve as a continuous temporary art exhibit. The visitor pauses where the back of the main atrium’s monuments are memorials from the opposite side, it’s like an open book that immortalize people who made change or lost their life defending their cause. The permanent exhibitions are in each section. The same thing repeated in the 2nd and 3rd floor but 4th floor is dedicated for administration and professionals in residence.

Sustainable Strategies:

Building Orientation & Form: Sun and Wind: Rotating the orientation of the building to expand the views, maximize sun exposure to the south and deflect harsh winter winds specially the west prevailing wind towards the main entrance. Another point is having the cafe garden below the ramp level helps lessen winds effect. Natural Lighting: Smart glass roof structure to allow natural lighting deeper into the building. In addition, the form design is allowing for cross ventilation. With respect to flood concerns, having the building rise 12’ above the site. Building Location: The building pushed towards the edge of the site to create engagement with water, avoid existing buildings shade, and expand the views.Landscape Design: The site is divided into two main sections, hardscape and softscape to the south to serve as green park and environmental sanctuary for the area.The water drop, is a special point of interest in the museum. It’s a transparent sanctuary that welcomes the north serene light into a fluid form, steeped space that frames the water in a spiritual way. Program wise, it’s a flexible space that can serve as a special art gallery, conference, or performance space.