The Museum, also known as the Dr Bhau Daji Lad Museum, is in the process of creating a dynamic new identity for itself as a cultural hub in Mumbai. One hundred and four Expressions of Interest were received for the project, and so strong was the quality of entries that the Museum was able to identify an exceptional shortlist.
Eight teams were shortlisted for the 275 crore project for new permanent and temporary galleries and facilities. The Jury assessed design submissions, presentations and interviews and unanimously selected New York-based practice Steven Holl Architects who collaborated with Mumbai-based Opolis Architects. Steven Holl Architects has been selected over OMA, Studio Mumbai Architecture, Zaha Hadid and four others, Holl is now the first architect ever to be chosen through an international competition to design a public building in Mumbai.
The Jury also awarded an honourable mention to UK-based practice AL_A, led by Amanda Levete. The new addition to the existing Museum is expected to be 8,000 to 10,000 m2 (85,000 – 110,000 sq ft), providing new permanent and temporary galleries, as well as an interpretation center, library, archive, conservation facilities and a museum shop and cafe to the facility. A permanent gallery, located at the heart of the addition, will focus on contemporary Mumbai, celebrating its cultural and developmental milestones.
“The winning design was distinctive for its sculptural and calligraphic qualities,” stated the official press release. “It proposes a simple volume, which is enlivened by deep subtracting cuts, creating dramatic effects of light and shade. Its central feature is a reflecting pool in a new garden courtyard between the old and new buildings. The scheme will establish a cultural campus around the Museum in this growing district within Mumbai."
