Image courtesy the National Museum of Finland
The Uusi Kansallinen (‘the New National’) architecture competition held this year sought proposals for the design of an annex to the National Museum of Finland. A total of 185 entries were submitted. JKMM Architects’ submission Atlas was selected as the winner, and will receive a prize of EUR 80,000.
In their assessment, the jury characterized the winning entry as “noble in its overall approach.” “The fact that the grand curving ceiling is visible from the underground foyer lends a wonderful mood to the interior and is excellent for visitor orientation. The entry is functionally good, uncontrived, and handsome. The foyer spaces and curving ceiling can be used for exhibitions to project their themes externally. The spaces are easily approachable and locatable.”
“The annex will serve as a symbol of our contemporary understanding of national values and culture. JKMM’s work exemplifies cultural renewal and its power to effect change, while also underlining the unique architecture of the existing building. From a practical standpoint, the structure of the new spaces also corresponds to the needs of the museum’s expanding operations,” said Elina Anttila, director general of the National Museum of Finland.
