An Architecture for Art

The new M HKA

Master thesis (2023)

Authors

S. van der Scheer Architecture and the Built Environment

Contributors

S. De Vocht Situated Architecture - Architecture and the Built Environment (mentor)
M. Parravicini Architectural Technology - Architecture and the Built Environment (coach)
J.S. Zeinstra Situated Architecture - Architecture and the Built Environment (coach)
Faculty
Architecture and the Built Environment, Architecture and the Built Environment
Copyright: © 2023 Zwaan van der Scheer
More Info
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Published Date

09-11-2023

Language

English

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Faculty

Architecture and the Built Environment

Abstract

Antwerp has a very important port history and the existing lock underneath the new location for the M HKA is a reminder of that. In my design for the new M HKA, the underground lock will be transformed into exhibition and forum spaces, while a new building will be built above ground.
Public stairs are positioned in the centre of the building, connecting the spaces under and above ground in one big continuous movement. The stairs come up inside a bay window with a view over the water just outside the main building volume, providing a scenic view of the water and connecting the park side to the waterfront. These stairs connect the park and the water as well as the industrial roughness of the lock space with the domestic intimacy of the gallery spaces and form a focal point in the building.
The facade is composed of panels made from offset glass blocks with wooden strips in between. For this facade I designed a new element which doesn't use mortar the connect the blocks and is demountable. Creating a translucent and transparent facade around the building which lets light through during the day and lights up at night.