The Museum of Architecture in Wrocław, in cooperation with the Association of Polish Architects, Wrocław Branch, has announced a one-stage competition for an architectural concept for the redevelopment and extension of this unique facility on a national scale. The aim of the competition is to select the best concept that will transform the museum into a modern and inspiring place, combining its rich history with modern solutions. The competition, which runs from August to December 2024, is aimed at architects and design teams.
The modernisation and expansion of the Museum of Architecture in Wrocław aims to transform this historic post-Bernardine complex into a dynamic cultural centre where tradition meets innovation. The project includes the thorough modernisation of existing buildings, the expansion of exhibition spaces and the creation of new educational and multifunctional areas. Key will be the implementation of technologically advanced and environmentally friendly solutions that will make the museum a model of sustainable development.
MA, photo: Maciej Kaczor
The main objectives of the expansion and modernisation of the museum:
1. Improving infrastructure and bringing it up to modern standards
The modernisation includes both existing and new spaces, including storage, digitisation and conservation studios, and modern exhibition areas. The aim is to create multifunctional areas that can host a variety of cultural events.
2. Promoting accessibility and inclusivity
The project involves fully adapting the museum to the needs of people with disabilities. The removal of architectural barriers and the creation of accessible visitor paths are priorities that will allow every visitor to fully participate in the museum’s offer.
3. Strengthening the museum’s educational and social role
The Architecture Museum is to become a place for dialogue about architecture, both formal and informal. New educational and workshop spaces will foster engagement with the local community and visitors from around the world.
4. Sustainability and green solutions
The refurbishment will be carried out in accordance with the principles of sustainability and the European Green Deal. The project will introduce solutions to minimise environmental impact and maximise biodiversity.
5. Strengthening the museum’s position on the international stage
Aiming to make the Wrocław Architecture Museum the leading museum institution in Central and Eastern Europe is one of the project’s main objectives. The modernisation is intended to strengthen its role as a promoter of Polish architecture and opinion leader.
6. Preservation and protection of valuable historical fabric
The modernisation aims to preserve the unique value of the post-Bernardine ensemble, which is one of the museum’s most valuable legacies. The new architectural elements will be harmoniously integrated into the historic structure of the building.
As part of the new functional scheme, it is envisaged that the museum’s communication axis will be reoriented, which means moving the main entrance to the western courtyard, on Bernardyńska Street. The new open public space will encompass the courtyard, the cloisters, the cloister and the modernist east wing, creating the central functional element of the museum.
Visitor traffic will be directed from the public space to the main museum zones, including the exhibition area, the multifunctional education room and the new wing, which will house collection storage, conservation and digitisation workshops and a reading room. Entries can be submitted until 6 December 2024, 4pm, and the results will be announced on 20 December 2024. Cash prizes and the opportunity to realise the project await the winners.
ORGANISER:
Museum of Architecture in Wrocław, 7 Bernardyńska Street, 50-156 Wrocław
with the participation of
Association of Polish Architects Branch Wrocław, 21 OławskaSt. , 50-123 Wrocław
SARP Competition No. 1060
Competition website: http://ma.wroc.pl/pl/artykul/konkurs/
Source: Museum of Architecture in Wrocław
Read also: Architecture in Poland | Metamorphosis | Museum | Monument | Wrocław
