XTU architects: jeongok prehistory museum

‘jeongok prehistory museum’ by XTU architects, jeongok, south korea images courtesy of XTU architects

‘jeongok prehistory museum’ by france based-studio XTU architects is now complete. located on a paleolithic site of major archeological significance in jeongok, south korea, the facility aims to provide a multi-sensory space that represents ranging environments and atmospheres from the prehistoric landscape.

approach

stretching between two small peaks, the structure seeks to harmoniously co-exist with the natural surroundings, physically acting as a threshold between modern day and archaic times. the soft and rounded form meanders around the site, paying homage to the watery landscape that originally existed nearby.

pathways leading to ‘threshold’

a perforated double wall referencing the pattern of reptile skin reflects the peripheral scenery, changing as the day progresses and activity around the volume evolves. at night, the small punctures become illuminated and animated, as light moves along the stainless steel which smoothly wraps around the tubular form. 

threshold

paths organized as overlapping loops circulate around the building and serve as exterior museographic spaces. merging the boundaries of indoors and out, concealed and exposed, the design aims to put users closer to the landscape than the building.

beneath the structure, between the two hills

inside, a network of exhibition, education and activity spaces work in a continuous loop, guiding visitors through a collection of open and interactive areas. freely arranged islands form micro-themed atmospheres throughout the museum, whose environment replicates and reconstitutes scenic landscapes and animal species.

the reflective facade changes with light conditions and activity

windows

‘prehistoric garden’

overall view

interior

corridor while under construction

restaurant while under construction

exhibition space while under construction

micro-themed island while under construction

stairway while under construction

rendering of aerial view

rendering of structure

rendering of rooftop