continued

Material Evolution

The old and new spaces maintain contrasting materials and identities, however. The new floors are supported by round steel columns with a concrete floor at the street level. The old floors are finished with their original wood and are supported by heavy square columns. The contrast in styles between the two halves of the building speak to the visitor of the differences between past and present.

The museum's new image is similarly diverse in outward appearance. While the north elevation proudly symbolizes its 1918 origins, the side and back facades show the city a face more integrated with the urban environment. "We are history, and we are the future," the building seems to be saying. It speaks not only of the museum collection it houses, but also of itself.

The firm Oficina de Arquitetos was created in 2000, in Rio de Janeiro. Partners are Ana Paula Polizzo, Gustavo Martins, and Marco Milazzo.

Architect: Oficina de Arquitetos
Structural engineer: SF Engenharia
Lighting design: Peter Gasper
Automation: PMC Engenharia
Visual communication: Mameluco Design
Exhibits: Gringo Cardia
Cyber cafe interior: Passaredo Design
Contemporary art gallery: Ivan Pascarelli
Theater: Robson Jorge
General contractor: Construtora CVP SA
Construction manager: Engineering SA
Client construction manager: Taissa Parada Thiry

Discuss this article in the Architecture Forum...

Physical model of the Telecommunications Museum by Oficina de Arquitetos, in Rio de Janeiro. Photo: Oficina Arquitetos Glass, wood, and zinc titanium come together at the employee entrance on the south elevation. Photo: Marco Milazzo Zinc titanium cladding on the new portion of the building. Photo: Marco Milazzo Louvered windows at the door to a rooftop terrace. Photo: Marco Milazzo The lobby doubles as reception hall. Photo: Oficina Arquitetos A grand staircase of glass adds to the high-tech ambiance. Photo: Oficina Arquitetos The refinished interior of the 1918 portion of the building. Photo: Alexandre Lobo Gallery space. Photo: Alexandre Lobo Glass and steel staircases. Photo: Oficina Arquitetos Louvered skylights top the grand stair. Photo: Alexandre Lobo   Click on thumbnail images to view full-size pictures.