Easter Sculpture Museum, Hellín, Spain.

One of the competition requirements was reclamation of the Casa del Conde in the context of the new museum to be built, an aspect present in the idea which won the competition, presented by the EXIT architects.

When it turned out to be impossible to reclaim the old construction at a reasonable cost, they opted for restoration of its façade only, integrating it into the new building. But the idea of reclamation remained a key concept, as the materials from the old building were reused in the new complex, including stone columns and reinforcement structures.

Thus the old façade becomes not only a decorative element but above all a way of promoting architectural integration. The façade was designed to maintain the building’s links with its surroundings and made out of the same local stone as the nearby church, ensuring that the colours of the museum blend into its historic surroundings in the town of Hellín. This design expedient for preservation of the spirit of the place conceals a very modern heart of bare cement and glass.

A few carefully chosen materials such as matt glass, wood and, above all, cement create the interior, skilfully shown off by use of natural light, revealing the richly decorated works which are the museum’s true focus rather than underlining the importance of the container around them.

Design: EXIT ARCHITECTS, Spain, http://www.exit-architects.com/
Partner in charge: Iban Carpintero & Mario Sanjuan
Team: Miguel Garcia-Redondo, Angel Sevillano, Jose María Tabuyo
Location: Hellín, Albacete, Spain
Client: Public Works Ministry/Hellín Municipality
Related links:
Competition: 1998
Completion of work and opening: 2011
Photographs: Fernando Guerra, http://www.ultimasreportagens.com

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