Wrapped in 16,000 hexagonal aluminum tiles, Museo Soumaya’s shining, serpentine skin was built to reflect the sun’s light and to stand the test of time. The weight of the spiraling form is supported by 28 curved steel vertical columns and is stabilized by seven ring beams. The museum’s flat, anvil-like top is suspended from a cantilever that streams in natural daylight through a large skylight to the top floor—the only significant opening in the windowless museum.
Located in a mixed-use development, the museum also houses a library, gift shop, restaurant and 350-seat auditorium. Commissioned by business magnate Carlos Slim Helú, the $800 million structure was inaugurated in early 2011 and offers free admission.
+ Fernando Romero EnterprisE
Via ArchDaily
