New Museum of Liverpool – Nexus of Harbour Promenade and Albert Dock
‘More than a building, more than a museum’ proclaims the Danish architect Kim Herforth Nielsen for Liverpool’s new museum which lies at the Mersey River in the city centre.
The dynamic low-rise structure enters into a respectful dialogue with the harbour promenade’s taller historical buildings, what facilitates a modern and lively urban space. The design is reminiscent of the trading ships which at one time dominated the harbour, while the façade’s relief pattern puts forward a new interpretation of the historical architectural detail in the ‘Three Graces’. The enormous gabled windows open up towards the city and the harbour, and therefore symbolically draw history into the museum while at the same time allow the curious to look in.
The intention of the concept by 3XN was to physically connect the harbour promenade with the restaurants, museums and boutiques of the Albert Dock. The museum and its surrounding are to serve as a meeting point for the people of Liverpool, visitors from all over the world and history. Therefore the museum’s outdoor areas offer seating with views to the water adding to the dynamic urban environment. The theme is carried through into the museum’s central atrium with its sculptural sweeping staircase leading up to the galleries.
The new Museum of Liverpool is the largest national museum to be built in the UK in over hundred years and is situated on a UNESCO World Heritage Site next to the famous ‘Three Graces’. It has also been one of the largest projects for the Danish office 3XN and his principal architect Kim Herforth Nielsen. Dr David Fleming OBE, director of National Museums Liverpool, opened the doors on 19 July 2011.
Source: DETAIL
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