This project stands out from other museums due to its focus on creating different experiences and visual connections throughout the museum tour. The design takes advantage of its surroundings in Puerto Madero, a renewed area of Buenos Aires, and showcases only contemporary art, making it a truly one-of-a-kind concept.
The building itself is a marvel of modern architecture. The structure consists of a mesh of reinforced concrete, with a curtain wall frame attached to it. A striking steel structure covers the building, adding to its visual appeal.
With a site measuring 135mx55m, the Contemporary Art Museum boasts a gross build area of 25,000.00m2. It spans six floors and reaches a height of 23m, providing ample space for exhibitions and installations.
Inside the museum, visitors are greeted with three exhibition rooms that can be divided into five rooms using sliding panels. One of these rooms has an impressive height of 20m, allowing for the display of large-scale artworks and sculptures. The museum also features a terrace with a restaurant, an auditorium, and a multipurpose space, providing additional opportunities for cultural engagement.
The architectural tour of the museum is an experience in itself. Visitors can choose to take ramps that lead up to the terrace, offering different perspectives and views along the way. Alternatively, they can explore each exhibition room in a random order, taking the stairs or an elevator. The design ensures that every visitor can create their own unique journey through the museum.
The project, which started in June 2012 and was completed in February of the following year, was developed in Rio de Janeiro. The design team conducted extensive research, including visits to the site and the city of Buenos Aires, to understand the context and surroundings. They aimed to create a museum that would seamlessly integrate with the cultural fabric of Puerto Madero and pay homage to the city's rich artistic heritage.
One of the main challenges faced by the designers was to create a building that would harmonize with its surroundings and establish a connection with the iconic "Puente de La Mujer." By carefully considering the cultural and architectural context, they were able to overcome this challenge and create a museum that not only showcases contemporary art but also becomes a unique tourist destination in Puerto Madero.
The Contemporary Art Museum has received recognition for its outstanding design. In 2013, it was awarded the Silver A' Design Award in the Architecture, Building, and Structure Design category. This prestigious award celebrates designs that demonstrate exceptional expertise, innovation, and artistic skill. The museum's strong technical characteristics and ability to evoke positive emotions make it a true masterpiece.
With its innovative design, focus on contemporary art, and integration with the cultural environment of Puerto Madero, the Contemporary Art Museum stands as a testament to the power of art, architecture, and design to create immersive and transformative experiences.
Project Designers: Paula Werneck Arquitetura
Image Credits: Paula Werneck Arquitetura
Project Team Members: Marina Cuiabano
Felipe Deslandes
Project Name: Buenos Aires
Project Client: Paula Werneck Arquitetura