Many of you may know that there is a world-renowned museum in New York City called MoMA (Museum of Modern Art). However, recently a new museum has been completed in Bangkok that shares the same name and has become a new landmark in the area thanks to its avant-garde architectural design. What is the story behind this striking building?
This is actually a modern aluminum museum, with the aim of demonstrating the importance of aluminum and its limitless possibilities in design.
In the 1980s and 1990s, Thailand was the largest aluminum producer in Southeast Asia. However, in 1997, the Asian financial crisis impacted the aluminum industry, turning it into a heavily produced low-cost industry. The streets were filled with chaotic advertisement signs, balcony railings, and the expansion of underground factories, which affected the local urban landscape. The once-glorious industry has since declined, becoming a disregarded sector. In a bid to redeem the aluminum industry, this museum was established.
The museum is designed by HAS design and research in collaboration with chief architects Jenchieh Hung and Kulthida Songkittipakdee. The designers created the building’s facade using thousands of aluminum strips, each with slightly different colors and textures, which together form an irregular shape reminiscent of dandelions swaying in the breeze. Additionally, LED lights are installed along the aluminum strips, illuminating the museum at night, transforming it from a daytime dandelion into a firefly in the dark.
The aluminum strips on the facade not only provide lighting but also block the fierce sunlight during the day, making the indoor space more comfortable. While serving as the main展示 element, the aluminum strips extend into the interior decor and facilities, enhancing the overall coherence of the interior and exterior. Additionally, seasonal plants have been planted on the top level of the museum, balancing the coldness of the architectural elements and creating an urban green ecological space.
MoMA is located in the bustling transportation hub area of Ratchaphruek in Bangkok, surrounded by various commercial buildings. However, with the addition of the museum, this busy area now brings a sense of tranquility and natural charm.
Image source and learn more: HAS design and research, W Workspace
