Report: Flowing Spaces Behind Historic Facades: Art Museum in Oviedo
- Julia Liese
The extension of the Museum of Fine Arts of Asturias blends seamlessly into the old town of Oviedo, a city in northern Spain. Only upon closer inspection does one notice the new volume behind the openings in the historic stone facades, with its glass shell and steeply rising roofs. Previously, the museum's space was confined to two historic buildings within a small-scale block of buildings. Now, the museum also extends over the former courtyard and other historic buildings along Calle Rúa. It quickly became clear that the existing, narrow, and dark spaces were hardly suitable for an adequate presentation of the museum's art collection. However, in order to preserve the cohesive character of the old town, the architect opted for a hybrid solution of old and new: the existing historic facades from different eras were retained and now form a kind of backdrop in front of the new building, which is set off from the existing structure by a gap. Abstract reflections on the glass facade create a dynamic interplay between old and new. Inside, bright, spacious exhibition rooms have been created around an atrium on three floors. Numerous openings in the walls not only let plenty of light into the rooms, but also allow for a variety of views in and out.
