WATER MUSEUM & HERITAGE INTERPRETATION CENTRE, POLONNARUWA, SRI LANKA

City School of Architecture (CSA), Colombo

Project idea

The project envisions a new-style museum that goes beyond the stagnant function of mere collection and preservation of objects and artifacts. It focuses on both culture and nature by aiding and simulating a visitor's intellectual and emotional connection to the heritage in order to create an immersive experience.
Polonnaruwa was known as the Hydraulic Civilization. Thus, water being a unique symbol of its past, present and future, the concept of 'manipulated hydraulics' is used to heighten the senses as the visitor journeys through the museum - a harmonious juxtaposition of past, present and future through the crafting of space.

Project description

'Conservation' can be defined as the act or process of preserving something in being. When dealing with buildings, in addition to regular maintenance, a more dynamic role is taken on when concerned with the setting, appearance of old and new elements and its new uses'
- UN HABITAT II, 1996

Polonnaruwa being a World Heritage Site, the vision was to enhance the city, against a rich backdrop of nature, heritage and culture. The brief includes an Archaeological museum, Eco museum, Exhibition spaces / galleries, 3D interactive displays, Living museum, Multi-purpose hall (indoor/outdoor), Archaeopark, Outdoor galleries / gardens, Information unit / ticketing, Café, Souvenir shop, Research arm, Storage, Security, Toilets and Parking.
One's journey begins by walking over a man-made pond and then going under into the galleries. The climax is at the top, with a vista to the large bordering water body; before descending back down to the cafe and canal promenade level.

Technical information

SITE EXTENT – approx 9000 sq.m
NORTH BOUNDARY – Island Park
SOUTH BOUNDARY – Canal
(24m reservation from centre)
EAST BOUNDARY - Colombo-Batticaloa Road
(15m reservation from centre)
WEST BOUNDARY – Parakrama Samudraya (water body) (15m reservation from centre of Bund Road)

USERS
PRIMARY – Tourists and visitors who come to experience World Heritage Site of Polonnaruwa (cultural & natural)
SECONDARY – Local artisans and craftsmen
TERTIARY – Researchers, heritage site managers, guides, etc.

STRUCTURE
Waffle slabs are used throughout to allow ease of removing panels in strategic points where reflected light is let through. The entire museum becomes a living water dam, with cascades which flow over the entire roof of the building - recirculating and providing much-needed respite from the heat.