AND Studio's Lhasa Thangka Museum: A Modern Sanctuary for Ancient Art

Blending Tradition with Modernity in Tibetan Thangka Preservation

Two years in the making, AND Studio embarked on an ambitious journey to create a museum that not only houses the world's largest Thangka art collection but also stands as a testament to the harmonious blend of modernity and tradition. The inspiration for the museum's design was drawn from an in-depth exploration of Thangka art and the local culture, particularly the architectural progression of the Potala Palace, which informs the museum's volumetric journey.

Strategically nestled against the mountain foothills, the Lhasa Thangka Museum is a contemporary interpretation of a Tibetan monastery. Its design fosters a dialogue between the mountainous landscape and the sky, respecting and reflecting the local heritage through modern architectural language. The museum's unique properties lie in its role as a cultural beacon, promoting the preservation and understanding of Thangka and Tibetan culture.

The realization of this architectural marvel was achieved through a commitment to sustainability and local craftsmanship. The design incorporates two distinct pathways: an external ascent reminiscent of a monastery's path, leading to a high square for the display of a large Thangka during the "Sho Dun" festival, and an internal route that guides visitors through exhibition spaces designed to mirror the spiritual journey towards enlightenment. The museum's construction utilized local materials and techniques, such as double ventilated concrete walls and pressed clay flooring, to minimize its carbon footprint and support regional artisans.

Technical ingenuity is evident throughout the museum's structure, with the main tower serving multiple functions: an exhibition space, a panoramic viewpoint, and a "wind tower" for natural ventilation. The building's double wall system ensures insulation, reducing energy consumption for heating and cooling by 30%, and cleverly integrates technical equipment.

AND Studio's design team, led by architects Ning Wang and Duccio Cardelli, collaborated closely with local monks and curators to ensure the museum's interaction with visitors would enhance learning and meditation. The strategic use of natural light and architectural elements creates a serene environment that elevates the ancient paintings, ensuring their inspirational and testimonial value for generations to come.

Commencing in February 2019 and culminating in May 2022, the Lhasa Thangka Museum project in Lhasa, China, is a result of extensive research and a deep cultural immersion guided by a monk and the client. The design team faced and overcame significant challenges, such as the prohibition of local quarrying, leading to innovative solutions like the reinterpretation of traditional stone walls with concrete.

The Lhasa Thangka Museum by AND Studio is not only a celebration of Thangka art but also a symbol of the enduring spirit of Tibetan culture. The museum's design has been recognized with the prestigious Silver A' Architecture, Building and Structure Design Award in 2024, celebrating its exceptional design and contribution to the cultural landscape.