santiago calatrava: the museum of tomorrow, rio de janiero

santiago calatrava: the museum of tommorow, rio de janiero

earlier this week architect santiago calatrava unveiled his design for the museum of tomorrow in rio de janeiro, brazil. the spanish architect was commissioned to design the sustainably-focused museum, as part of the ambitious ‘marvelous port’ urban design project, which will transform rio’s historical waterfront into a thriving cultural and residential community. located on the highly prominent pier maua, the museum is an integral part of the urban revitalization commitment that the city made to the international olympic committee during its successful bid for the 2016 olympic games. 

seeking inspiration from the citizens of rio and the surrounding historical landmarks, santiago calatrava‘s design celebrates the natural landscape. the museum of tomorrow features a cantilevered roof and façade with moving elements that extends almost to the full length of the pier, emphasizing the extension into the bay, while minimizing the building’s width. the building’s northern location maximizes a continuous landscaping strip along the southern length of the pier, complementing views towards the historical monastery de sao bento do rio de janeiro from both on and off the site.

side view

‘brazil’s magical ambiance radiates through rio de janeiro’s rich past and cultural heritage, the vast forests, beautiful landscapes and most of all the spirit of the people,’ said santiago calatrava, designer of the museum of tomorrow. ‘rio de janeiro has captured my imagination and through the expression of space and forms, I am excited to begin this journey.‘

side view

‘santiago calatrava’s design unites the boldness of his other well-known works with the beauty of guanabara bay and the history surrounding the pier maua, as well as the whole region of porto,’ said eduardo pes, mayor of rio de janeiro. ‘the museum of tomorrow perfectly matches the genius of this amazing spanish architect and the soul that is present in rio’s harbor area. I’m sure that the museum will serve as a milestone in the revitalization of that area and the whole city.’