M A D

'ordos museum' by MAD 


MAD architects: ordos museum completed from designboom on Vimeo.


dutch photographer iwan baan has documented the recently completed and opened 'ordos museum' in ordos, china by
beijing-based practice MAD architects. situated at the create of a dune-like hill, the building appears to have landed
from another world into the recently created urban center within the once gobi desert. the masterplan is mindful of the existing
cultural traditions of the area while addressing the progress and future of the city, allowing the community to congregate and lounge
within the surrounding plazas. surfaced with metal panels, the undulating exterior protects the interior from the region's harsh winters
and sand storms.

upon entering the museum, an atrium with characteristics of a cave and canyon become apparent, introducing swaths of daylight
from above along with shadowed passages leading towards galleries. a series of bridges traverse the chasm from one void to another
guided by the changes in illumination. residents of the area may circulate through the interior to efficiently cross from one side of
the site to the other without entering exhibitions. employees of the center are provided a natural work environment with office and research spaces which flank a south-facing internal garden.

to view the complete set of photographs, click here.
http://www.iwan.com/photo_Ordos_Museum_Mongolia_China_MAD_Architects_Ma_Yansong.php
see designboom's initial coverage of the museum during construction and substantial completion.

http://www.designboom.com/weblog/cat/9/view/18132/iwan-baan-photographs-ordos-museum-by-mad-architects.html