Budapest National Gallery of Contemporary Art

The New National Gallery and Ludwig Museum projects strong iconic architectural presence on the historical axis of the City Park in Budapest. The museum sits on the Hungária körút side of the park, facing both to the city edge and the park. The museum is composing by two different sculpted forms merging into each other: the stone façade New National Gallery towards to the city of Budapest and the modern crystal façade facing to the park.

The two institutions are accessible separately, has its independent operation, yet remain a visual connection though the new forecourt and landscape. The two museums are connected through their permanent exhibition on the upper level; the bridge connection also creates a courtyard space in between the two institutions for different outdoor activities and events.
The two museums has its primary entrance facing Hermina Street, and multiple entrances facing to the different directions of the park. The modern museum wing is designed to be lifted from the ground, and creates an open indoor and outdoor space for sculpture display and museum events. The interior of the New National Gallery is divided by a "center boulevard". Visitors can access different gallery spaces through the horizontal circulation in this open atrium space; and access to the Ludwig wing through the bridge across from the atrium.

The National Museum, oriented towards the city, allows specific views and connections to the main urban thoroughfares (specifically Hermina Street) as well as creating connections to multiple pedestrian paths and service roads. The National museum is accessed from the north side, marked by cafes and an open plaza for hosting public events. The landscape is designed to create a fluid procession through the site, from the city to the park, with a variety of atmospheric experiences in between. This concept of transient experience is an integral design theme that blends internal circulation with external expression.

The southwest elevation is clad with a hexagonal façade embedded with photovoltaic cells. These cells both create a shading effect as they intercept excessive solar exposure, cutting down on energy expenditure needed to cool the museum, while simultaneously harvesting and storing the sun's power, creating a largely self-sustaining energy system. This innovative and contemporary technology is well-suited to the main façade of the Contemporary wing.

The event hall is on the ground level of the National Gallery with its own entrance and service program.The maximum height of the interior space is 14 meter, serve as auditorium room, music hall and film projection. The GAIA lab is located on the top floor of the gallery, form as an oval shape, with a dome skylight. The researchers and professionals can access the lab space and open office space through the central staff elevator. All the dining service and kitchen is located on the east side of the building: cafeteria on the ground level, connected to the outdoor courtyard; the brasserie is located on the fifth level of the museum, with a view overlook the atrium space. The lecture hall for the Ludwig museum sits on top of the building, overseen the city park.