ATELIER BRÜCKNER introduces "Picturing the Cosmos" at Louvre Abu Dhabi. Specifically designed for the children's museum, a distinct structure within the renowned architecture of French architect Jean Nouvel, this exhibit offers a unique exploration of the cosmos for children and young individuals. The dedicated children's space spans three intricately designed floors, seamlessly blending playfulness, scientific exploration, and immersion. Get to know more about the project on SURFACES REPORTER (SR):
Louvre Abu Dhabi. Architecture: Jean Nouvel. Photography: Daniel Stauch
Ground Floor - Mimicking the Starry Sky
The enchanting journey commences on the ground floor, where a dark and magical atmosphere mimics the starry sky. Visitors embark on a cosmic exploration through barcode wristbands, answering questions in multiple languages.
Louvre Abu Dhabi. Picturing the Cosmos, Ground Floor: Cosmos Gallery. Photography: Daniel Stauch
The Cosmos Gallery offers a curated experience of contemplation, narration, and measurement, featuring a unique collection, including ancient measuring instruments and captivating artworks on loan from the Louvre in Paris.
Louvre Abu Dhabi. Picturing the Cosmos, Ground Floor. Cosmos Gallery. Painting by Jospeh Meslé: Lever de lune sur la Laïta, 1909. Musée d'Orsay. ©Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi / Siddharth Siva
First Floor - "Explore" - A Spaceship-Themed Environment
As young visitors ascend an impressive staircase, the first floor titled "explore" welcomes them to a bright and technical spaceship-themed environment.
Louvre Abu Dhabi. Picturing the Cosmos, First Floor. Entrance Tunnel. Photography: Daniel Stauch
Centered around space travel and research experiments, this level features recorded films from an Emirati spacecraft and an authentic astronaut's suit from the UAE Space Agency, providing an authentic touch to the space experience.
Basement - Mars Exploration in Orange Light
The cosmic journey reaches its peak in the basement, entirely bathed in orange light, dedicated to exploring Mars.
Louvre Abu Dhabi. Picturing the Cosmos, Lower Ground Floor: Mars Trial. ©Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi / Siddharth Siva
The Mars Station introduces children to the planet's requirements for exploration, featuring an interactive "Mission Desk" and an outdoor area designed as a training ground for playful exploration of the Martian landscape.
Global Collaboration and Cultural Richness
"Picturing the Cosmos" was developed in collaboration with the Mubadala Investment Company, the UAE Space Agency, and the Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Centre.
Louvre Abu Dhabi. Picturing the Cosmos, First Floor. Spacewalk through Infinity. Realisation with Studio BK. Photography: Daniel Stauch
Support from France Museums and loans from prestigious institutions globally highlight the exhibition's global collaboration fostering cultural richness.
Louvre Abu Dhabi. Picturing the Cosmos, Exterior Space. ©Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi / Siddharth Siva
Architectural Details of Louvre Abu Dhabi
Louvre Abu Dhabi, envisioned by architect Jean Nouvel, stands as a modern marvel in the heart of the United Arab Emirates' capital. The museum's centerpiece is a 7,500-ton floating dome, resembling the cupola in Arabic architecture, adorned with 7,850 stars that create a mesmerizing 'rain of light' as sunlight filters through.
Surrounded by water, Louvre Abu Dhabi is accessible by land or sea, with 55 buildings, including 23 galleries, inspired by traditional regional homes. The exterior walkways invite visitors to contemplate artworks and appreciate the interplay of sun, sea, art, and architecture. Nouvel's design incorporates environmental sustainability, earning the museum a 'Silver LEED' status and a Three Pearl Estidama Design Rating. The dome not only enhances aesthetic appeal but also reduces energy consumption, providing passive cooling and a comfortable microclimate. The museum's commitment to environmental excellence extends to passive water and energy conservation, efficient HVAC systems, and thoughtful architectural features that contribute to a harmonious relationship with the surroundings.