Architecture project // Glass and Concrete Exploration of Digital Culture in a Historic Context

Glass and Concrete Exploration of Digital Culture in a Historic Context

Authors:

MARILENA NTOUNETA, JACOPO CATTOZZO MOR, GULCIN ORAKCI

A sophisticated blend of dark glass and poured concrete forms an engaging space dedicated to the exploration of digital culture, seamlessly integrating state-of-the-art technology within a historic London context.

5 key facts about this project

A multi-level layout designed metaphorically as a “well” to guide visitors from the surface to immersive underground experiences.

The integration of a “Black Box” exhibition space showcases holographic technology and interactive installations unique to digital culture.

Sustainable practices are highlighted with high albedo materials and photovoltaic panels incorporated into the building's design.

The use of dark glass enhances depth perception and creates an engaging atmosphere while maintaining a connection with the urban environment.

Visitor areas include dedicated classrooms and collaborative spaces to foster community engagement and learning about digital history.

General keywords

london museum cultural exhibition technology education sustainability digital interactive public

Project specific keywords

woolwich internet museum black box concrete glass ramps holography photovoltaic caf

## Overview

Located in Woolwich, London, the London Internet Museum project seeks to redefine conventional museum spaces through a fusion of historical context and contemporary technological engagement. The design encourages public interaction with the digital age while acknowledging the significance of its site. The architectural intervention integrates below-ground spatial dynamics with a focus on enhancing user experiences, guiding visitors through layers of information that reflect the evolution of the internet.

## Materiality and Environment

A thoughtful selection of materials underpins the project’s narrative and sustainability goals. Concrete serves as the primary structural element, while glass is used strategically to foster transparency and connectivity with the surrounding environment, allowing natural light to illuminate internal spaces. Reflective metals accentuate the modern aesthetic of new constructions, and dark glass features prominently in the design of key areas, contributing to the ambient quality of the interiors. This material approach supports both aesthetic intentions and practical needs, ensuring resilience and fostering a cohesive visual dialogue throughout the museum.

## Spatial Configuration

The layout is designed to facilitate an engaging visitor experience through its diverse elevations and interconnected spaces. Notably, ground-level amenities—including a café and restaurant—act as a welcoming transition into the museum's deeper engagement areas. A circular ramp system connects the ground level to the underground layers, where classrooms, exhibition spaces, and collaborative work areas are situated. This configuration promotes exploration and interaction, with cutting-edge technologies enhancing collective and individual learning experiences across the museum’s exhibition areas and educational facilities. The integration of sustainable technologies, such as photovoltaic panels and high albedo materials, addresses environmental considerations while contributing to the educational mission of the museum.