Survivor Museum Design——Interweave & Interlace

Beijing University of Civil Engineering and Architecture

Project idea

This Jewish museum, designed with children in mind and inspired by the theme of "children" from the movie "Schindler's List," aims to engage young minds while fostering profound reflection.Retaining the original building's exterior, the interior adopts a "box" concept, creating a layered structure that forms various platforms and spaces. These boxes serve not only as playful areas but also as interconnected displays, showcasing the Jewish experience throughout history. Through interactive exhibits, visitors are encouraged to contemplate themes of history, humanity, and courage, providing a poignant and inspiring journey.

Project description

This project consists of the following components. First of all, we put a lot of boxes in the building, forming two large exhibition halls and a service center. On the far left of the floor plan is an exhibition hall whose theme is a dialogue with Schindler and the Jews, in which we divide several small sections, one part is the exhibition space on the first floor, and the other part is the fabric space on the second floor. Our exhibition and fabric are combined, allowing people to shuttle through the fabric and feel a different space experience.
The turbine hall in the middle has been transformed into a children's themed exhibition hall, where there are many different floor heights, staggered floors, and some places are very narrow and can only be passed by lying on their stomachs or squatting. Our aim is to make visitors experience the weak perspective of children in the war, and at the same time, this spatial experience can attract more children to learn about history, understand the war, and let adults get inspiration and reflection.
The service space includes a café, a bookstore and a cultural and creative center, hoping that visitors can take a break and buy some souvenirs. There is also an educational space in the building, and a lecture hall where you can watch historical reports. There is a discussion space next to the lecture hall, where everyone is welcome to share their insights.

Technical information

In terms of the construction of the building, we have retained the original shell and supporting structure of the building.