MOMAK - Museum of Modern Art Kosovo

University for Business and Technology - UBT

Project idea

This modern art museum is conceived as a fusion of the Constructivist style with Deconstructivist spirit, creating a structure that symbolizes the tension and harmony between past and future, tradition and innovation.

The basic form of the building follows clear and geometric lines, characteristic of Constructivism, utilizing cubic and rectangular shapes. These basic forms create a sense of stability and functionality, representing the strong foundations upon which the building is erected.
To create contrast and inject a modern and experimental spirit, these basic forms are interrupted by Deconstructivist elements. Broken lines, sharp angles, and unconventional structures mix with cubes and rectangles, creating a dynamic and energetic feel.

The facade of the building is a blend of various materials reflecting the two architectural styles. Glass and steel are used to create a modern and open appearance, allowing natural light to penetrate deeply into the interior spaces. Concrete and brick elements add a sense of solidity and durability, evoking the Constructivist aesthetic.
This modern art museum is not only a space for artistic exhibits but also a manifesto of the union of tradition and modernity in architecture.

Through the fusion of Constructivism and Deconstructivism, the building represents a new vision for museology and architecture in Kosovo, creating a cultural center that inspires and challenges traditional perceptions of space and form.

Project description

Location: Adjacent to the National University Library of Kosovo "Pjetër Bogdani," Pristina

The Modern Art Museum is strategically and symbolically located next to the National University Library of Kosovo "Pjetër Bogdani," in the heart of Pristina. This location makes the museum a key point in the urban landscape of the city, creating an important cultural and educational center. The proximity to the library not only enhances the cultural value of the area but also creates synergy between the two institutions, enabling a continuous exchange of ideas and cultural activities.

The surrounding area is rich with infrastructure and amenities, including parks, cafes, and public spaces that contribute to a lively and vibrant environment for visitors. The green spaces and gardens around the museum offer rest and relaxation areas, creating an organic connection between architecture and nature. These elements make the museum an attractive destination not only for art lovers but also for residents and tourists seeking a cultural and recreational experience in a unique setting.

Furthermore, the strategic position of the museum allows easy access for pedestrians and public transportation, making it accessible to a wide range of visitors. This location helps to promote art and culture within the community, encouraging broad participation and positively influencing the cultural development of the city.

The project for the Modern Art Museum "Construct-Deconstruct" is an ambitious architectural endeavor aimed at creating an inspiring new space for the exhibition and interpretation of modern art. This museum will be designed based on the principles of constructivism, gradually blending into deconstructivism, resulting in a dynamic and visually stunning fusion. The construction will involve the use of reinforced concrete and steel structures, providing the museum with both strong support and aesthetic flexibility.

Key Construction Elements:
• Reinforced Concrete: This material will be used in the constructivist part of the museum to create strong walls and columns, providing structural support and a clean, modern aesthetic. The geometric shapes and modularity of the concrete elements will emphasize functionality and simplicity.
• Steel: In the deconstructivist section, steel will play a crucial role in creating bold and innovative structures. Steel beams and columns will be used to construct asymmetrical and unstable forms that defy gravity and traditional perceptions of space.
The museum will have several separate exhibition areas, each with unique characteristics reflecting the transition from constructivism to deconstructivism. There will be large, well-lit galleries for major exhibitions, as well as more intimate spaces for specific installations.

Multifunctional spaces will enable the organization of various activities such as seminars, workshops, and other cultural events.
The Modern Art Museum "Construct-Deconstruct" will be an architectural manifestation of the transformation and blending of different artistic and architectural styles. This project aims to provide not only a space for the exhibition of art but also a unique visual and intellectual experience for all visitors, inspiring them to explore the boundaries of creativity and innovation.

With this project, we aim to create a museum that is not just a place for art but a work of art in itself.

Technical information

The Modern Art Museum "Construct-Deconstruct" will be characterized by an architectural structure that perfectly combines the stability and solidity of constructivism with the innovation and dynamism of deconstructivism. The primary material for the constructivist section will be reinforced concrete, used for the foundation, load-bearing walls, and columns. This section will feature simple geometric shapes and clean lines, reflecting the principles of constructivism. The use of prefabricated concrete elements will facilitate modular construction and offer flexibility for potential future expansions.

In contrast, the deconstructivist section will be built with a steel framework, providing the flexibility and strength needed to create innovative and dynamic forms. This part of the museum will be characterized by asymmetrical shapes and broken lines, creating a sense of movement and fluidity. Steel beams and columns will support these complex structures, including multi-level spaces and interconnections between different floors and areas of the museum.

The harmonious integration of reinforced concrete and steel will create a unique blend of constructivist stability and deconstructivist dynamism, utilizing modern construction techniques to ensure the building's durability, safety, and aesthetic appeal. The reinforced concrete foundation is designed to support the weight and dynamic loads of the structure, while the load-bearing structures will include concrete walls and columns in the constructivist section and steel beams and columns in the deconstructivist section.

Accurate calculations will ensure the structure can withstand static and dynamic loads, including visitor traffic and environmental factors. Incorporating principles of seismic-resistant design and advanced fire detection and suppression systems will guarantee the safety of the building and its visitors. With this combined approach, the Modern Art Museum "Construct-Deconstruct" will feature a structure that is simultaneously functional, durable, and visually impressive.

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