New Museum of Liverpool, United Kingdom

The new Museum of Liverpool is to be built at the city's most prominent site; the listed dock area by the River Mersey, next to 'The Three Graces'. The building is conceived as inclined or elevated platforms, gradually forming a sculptural iconic structure. All surfaces will be accessible; giving way to the public promenade flow along the Docks. Situated at the Pier Head, the museum will be visible from both the river and the city.

CAPITAL OF CULTURE

It will be one of the world's leading city history museums, reflecting Liverpool's global significance through its unique geography, history and culture. Hope is that the new museum will attract at least 750,000 visitors a year, and that Liverpool, with the museum as a lighthouse, can be resurrected to new grand times.

The visionary building will attract creative forces, generate new agendas and along the way create a new and attractive image for the city.

The new Museum of Liverpool will be an icon. For many years, Liverpool has been among the most important cities in the world, and this history will be displayed in the museum.

The city has been selected for European Capital of Culture 2008, in which the new museum will be a focal point. Among other things, this means that the museum must be built in record speed: the first phase of the museum is set to open in October 2008. After the Capital of Culture Year, the exhibition construction continues, and the museum must be finished for inauguration by April 2010.

LOCAL CONSIDERATIONS

Adaptation to the site and a clear distinction between new and existing buildings is essential in a sensitive and listed environment. An architecture style true to its own time is the only way the area's history stays visible; pastiches that mimic the existing buildings will inevitably obscure the picture.

The distinction is furthermore achieved by using smaller size, lower height and a formal contemporary language.

This makes The Three Graces and Albert Dock stand out and maintain their visual power, while the waterfront maintains its characteristic skyline.

Distinction does not rule out harmony. Harmony is achieved by a balanced use of materials such as a natural stone in keeping with what can already be found in the area, and by planning the new building according to existing public flow lines along the promenade in order not to block any movement patterns. The new building creates protected outdoor spaces and indoor view points towards the city's attractions.

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