Audeum Museum, new project by Kengo Kuma

FECHA

19.08.2024

The Japanese studio of Kengo Kuma and Associates has completed work on one of its most ambitious projects in recent years: the Audeum (Audio Museum), whose exterior envelope consists of 20,000 overlapping aluminum tubes that generate changing shadows, evoking the play of light in a bamboo forest. The Japanese architect arranged the louvers randomly to harmonize natural disorder and order, thus highlighting the beauty of light in constant change according to climate, weather and season.

Visitors access the museum via a large “valley” staircase that descends below the building, flanked by a natural stone wall. From there, the transition to a softer environment is facilitated by Alaskan cypress panels in the lobby atrium. The exterior aluminum envelope gradually merges with the interior to the warmth of the wood used in the rooms. The interior of the showrooms employs wood through a detail called a “wood curtain.” This approach distinguishes itself from traditional finishes by highlighting the softness and naturalness of the material. The design of the wood finishes takes acoustics into account, creating a space that stimulates the human senses and fosters a connection with nature.

The Audeum is a space where one can experience not only visual elements, but also sound, light, wind and fragrances, engaging all the senses. This place offers a unique and healing sensory experience that goes beyond a traditional museum, providing a special sensory and healing experience. A large double-height opening, facing the city, culminates the seven-story design, offering an experience that revitalizes the spirit.

The idea of creating this museum came from Michael Chung, acoustic equipment specialist and founder of the Korean brand of vacuum tube amplifiers Silbatone Acoustics, who has invested 130 million euros in the project. With this work, Kengo Kuma creates a place destined to become a symbol of the new era, where architecture and the senses come together in harmony.

The Audeum Museum is located in Gangnam, one of Seoul’s most popular areas, and construction work has been ongoing for the past two years.