Location: Leiden, Netherlands.

Architect: Neutelings Riedijk Architects.

Naturalis, the national research institute for biodiversity in Leiden, The Netherlands, has undergone a major renovation to accommodate its growing collection of 42 million objects and increasing number of visitors, which now stands at 400,000 per year. The new facilities include state-of-the-art laboratories and a museum showcasing the wealth and beauty of nature. The design of the atrium, which connects the various parts of the institute, features a three-dimensional concrete structure in the form of interlocking molecules, with filtered light entering through circular windows. The exterior of the exhibition halls mimics a geological structure, with stone blocks in horizontal layers interrupted by friezes of white, concrete elements designed by Dutch fashion designer Iris van Herpen. Inside the museum, designer Tord Boontje has created almost 100 striking and colorful wall panels that blend photography and drawing to reveal the wonders of the natural world. The project covers a total of around 38,000 m2 of which 18,000 m2 is renovation and 20,000 m2 is new construction. The new Naturalis facilities and collection enable researchers to contribute solutions to global issues including climate change, the decline of biodiversity on earth, food supply and water quality.

Photo credit: Scagliola Brakkee / Neutelings Riedijk Architects.