The Museum of Tomorrow by Santiago Calatrava

Museu do Amanhã, literally “Museum of the Future”, at first glance resembles a huge futuristic spaceship. This modern piece is a project by the renowned architect Santiago Calatrava and with each line is reminiscent of the unusual style of the Spanish architect.

A key theme in the design of this new museum was sustainability, and Calatrava hoped that the building itself and its construction will initiate discussion on topics such as alternative energy sources, the future of architecture and the relationship of the building to the city. Inspired by the tropical vegetation of Rio, the museum will be a cultural institution dedicated to ecology.

The architectural structure of the museum is sustainable and performed from recyclable materials. The purpose of the architectural team working on the project was to implement a museum facility that will epitomize the philosophy of environmental behavior and stimulate environmental awareness among its visitors. “The Museu do Amanhã” is one example of the motto “Act locally, think globally”, which emphasizes the importance of the natural environment and the necessity to protect it.

The museum building is located on the Gvanabara bay and branches off in two different levels, reaching a maximum height of 18 meters and width of 340 meters. Of the total area of ​​12,500 square meters, 5,000 square meters are reserved for the top floor which houses the exhibition spaces. Under this floor is a large auditorium, offices, laboratory and research rooms, archives, technical rooms and a café. The museum is connected with a green park and a recreation area.

Besides the interesting shape, Calatrava hopes that the object will respond to the idea that the museum should also be an exhibition space, a space for learning and education. The remarkable structure is embraced by two ponds, which further emphasize the idea of ​​ecology, sustainability and greater attention to environmental issues.

(Photo Credits: Santiago Calatrava)