M+ Museum of visual culture is a new museum in West Kowloon Cultural District, Hong Kong, China. Designed by Swiss architectural firm Herzog & de Meuron, this museum is a stunning example of the firm's innovative approach to architecture. The museum was opened to the public in November 2021 after years of construction delays and controversies. It boasts an impressive collection of art pieces, including contemporary art, design, and architecture.
The M+ Museum is one of the largest museums in the world uniquely designed to exhibit contemporary art and design from Asia and beyond. The architects describe the building as a 'jewel box' that houses the cultural treasures of the region.
The building's exterior is made of a perforated, translucent facade of aluminum that provides natural lighting into the museum. The facade is designed with three-dimensional trapezoidal panels that give different perspectives and reflections from different angles, creating a unique visual experience that is always changing. The exterior envelope creates depth, texture, and shadow play that has become synonymous with Herzog & de Meuron's architectural style.
The interior of the museum is designed to showcase the vast collection of artworks from Asia and beyond. The museum has a series of interconnected galleries with different spaces for temporary and permanent exhibitions. The heart of the museum is the central atrium, which creates a sense of openness and transparency. Visitors can view the works from the upper levels while strolling through the open space below.
The M+ Museum is designed with sustainability in mind. The building's orientation is optimized to reduce energy consumption, and the building uses a high-performance façade to minimize heat gain. The museum has a green roof that helps reduce the urban heat island effect and reduce the amount of energy needed to maintain a comfortable interior temperature.
The museum's exterior skin is perforated with thousands of diamond-shaped openings that allow for natural light to penetrate the building during the daytime. The result is a building that uses less energy to light its interior spaces. Additionally, the building's lighting is designed with energy efficiency in mind. LED bulbs are used throughout the building, and motion sensors are employed to reduce energy usage in areas that are not in use.
The M+ Museum plays a significant role in the local community, providing an opportunity for visitors to engage with contemporary art, design, and architecture. It is a platform for artists and designers to showcase their works and be recognized on an international level.
The museum also plays a critical role in Hong Kong's cultural landscape, helping to boost tourism and economy. The museum is part of the West Kowloon Cultural District, one of the world's largest cultural developments. The district aims to become a vibrant cultural hub that attracts both locals and tourists and serves as a catalyst for the development of the local creative industry.
What are the opening hours of the M+ Museum?
The museum is open from 10 am to 7 pm from Tuesday to Sunday and is closed on Mondays.
How much does it cost to visit the M+ Museum?
The admission fee for the M+ Museum is HKD 50 for adults, HKD 20 for students and seniors aged 60 and above, and free for children under the age of 12.
What is the capacity of the M+ Museum?
The M+ Museum has a total floor area of 65,000 square meters and houses over 7,000 art pieces, including contemporary art, design, and architecture.
Is the M+ Museum accessible for people with disabilities?
Yes, the museum is fully accessible for people with disabilities. It has wheelchair ramps, elevators, and other accessibility features to ensure that everyone can enjoy the museum's art and cultural treasures.
What are the main special exhibitions at the M+ Museum?
The M+ Museum features a constantly changing lineup of exhibitions and events. Check the museum's website for the latest information on upcoming exhibitions and events.
