Tibet Natural Science Museum, Lahassa, Tibet, Project by: Architecture-Studio
The new Natural Science Museum in Lhassa, which has just opened in the highlands of Tibet at a height of 3650 m above sea level, fits smoothly and seamlessly into this incredible landscape.
The museum, constructed a long channel, which covers an overall surface area of 30,000 m², has the same irregular outline as the surrounding mountains. This is where the mountain, a symbol of strength, joins the channel waters, symbolising life. This symbology is mirrored both inside and outside the museum. The moulding of the facade makes reference to “khata” - a traditional Buddhist ceremonial scarf embodying happiness - represented through a structural scheme of mandala motifs.
The facade design echoes the snow-capped mountains, adding lightness to the imposing structural design of the building.
The museum’s architectural design conforms neatly with the basic museum project: the spaces are flexible and equipped with the latest display/exhibition technology.
A large entrance hall acts as a buffer space and makes the building energy efficient. The varying thicknesses of the structural motifs on the roof and facade allow sunlight to filter in and enable both the internal lighting and temperature to be controlled. The incorporating of photovoltaic cells and a water capture/recycling system complete the building’s facilities.
Located right in the middle of the Himalayas, Lhassa Natural Science Museum combines cutting-edge technology with a modern-day reading of Tibetan symbols to provide the region with a sustainable museum facility that is also of international cultural relevance.
