Location: Providence, United States.
Architect: Beijing Archinest International architectural co.,.
The RISD Museum was built during a time when museums were only accessible to the elite. However, today, museums are open to the public and must be designed to symbolize inclusivity. The RISD Museum’s Master Plan calls for a “Sense of Place,” and the proposed design aims to make the museum more visible, navigable, and memorable. The design includes two new architectural features: a glass ceiling that extends from the four entrances surrounding the museum and a tower on top of the chimney and power plant. The tower will be mostly transparent, symbolizing openness, and will provide solar energy to the building. The design aims to attract diverse audiences and create a new city landmark that erases boundaries between audiences and the museum’s rich offerings. The proposed design hopes to create greater access and deeper experiences in the museum.