Museum of Modern Aluminum (MoMA),
project: HAS design and research
A building has been erected in Nonthaburi, near Bangkok, with aluminum slats forming its facade. The HAS design and research studio, which drew inspiration from the historical importance of aluminum in Thai industry, is responsible for the project. The building has been named the Museum of Modern Aluminum (MoMA), or Museum of Modern Aluminum.
Thailand's Museum of Modern Aluminum (MoMA) in Bangkok - street side view of the building
photo by W Workspace © HAS design and research
aluminum in the forefront
By the end of the 20th century, Thailand had become the largest aluminum producer in Southeast Asia. The availability and variety of aluminum profiles made it possible to meet the needs of the local market, as well as to export to other countries. However, as a result of the Asian financial crisis in 1997, the country's aluminum industry declined. The excess material found its way into Bangkok architecture, where aluminum began to be used in a variety of ways. The architects' goal was to create a building that not only highlights the metal's role in the local economy, but also highlights the hitherto underutilized potential of aluminum, both in material and functional terms.
Thailand's Museum of Modern Aluminum (MoMA) - a solid model of the building
© HAS design and research
The location of the Museum of Modern Aluminum
and inspiration from the nearby island of Koh Kret
The facility is located in Nonthaburi, which, located near Bangkok, is often considered one of the suburbs of the capital. The museum is located on Ratchaphruek Street, one of the main thoroughfares, surrounded by numerous advertisements and signs. Main roads lead from this area to places such as the Grand Royal Palace, Wongwian Yai Square and Koh Kret Island. A dozen years ago, Koh Kret was known as a tranquil oasis, full of skylights, providing a contrast to the hustle and bustle of the city. Inspired by this natural character of the island, the architects designed a building whose form refers to its ecological environment.
Thailand's Museum of Modern Aluminum (MoMA) - isometric view
© HAS design and research
stepped massing and organic form:
aluminum as an element of fluidity
The building has a stepped, staggered mass - one side of the building has one story, while the other extends four stories. The facade has been covered with tens of thousands of aluminum profiles, set at right angles to the wall surface. This makes the building appear more streamlined than it actually is. The metal elements cover not only the front facade, but also go to the two side walls. The slats, which vary in color and texture, resemble the feathers of a blower, which move slightly in the wind. At night, thanks to the LED lighting used, the building gets a backlit effect, reminiscent of skylights.
Thailand's Museum of Modern Aluminum (MoMA) - a view of the facade, which has been covered with tens of thousands of aluminum profiles
photo by W Workspace © HAS design and research
aluminum as the essence of design
Aluminum plays a key role in the coherent concept of the building, being present not only on the facade, but also in interior elements, lighting and furniture. The use of this material in different parts of the building allows for the creation of a unified aesthetic and functionality, integrating all elements into a well-composed whole.
Thailand's Museum of Modern Aluminum (MoMA) in Bangkok - the facade is characterized by uneven depth.
photo by W Workspace © HAS design and research
functionality and sustainable design:
light, space and nature in one
Elements of the façade not only generate varied lighting effects, but also serve the function of protecting interiors from excessive sunlight, which helps maintain a comfortable temperature in the building. The exhibition space has been designed with flexibility in mind, allowing easy adaptation for a variety of events, exhibitions and meetings. The museum's rooftop features a garden with seasonal plants that supports the natural ecosystem, encouraging the return of skylights.
Thailand's Modern Aluminum Museum (MoMA) in Bangkok - a bird's eye view.
photo by W Workspace © HAS design and research
Through detailed research and analysis of aluminum profiles, the architects designed a building that reinterprets the local context while introducing a modern approach to the Thai urban landscape. The building emphasizes the relationship between nature and urban hustle and bustle, creating a harmonious relationship between the two.
Elaborated: Anastazja Dżupina
Illustrations provided courtesy of HAS design and research studio.
