Characteristics
The most striking feature of the building designed by Renzo Piano is the
sloping roof, which simulates the steepness of mountain slopes. The MUSE
building extends over a length of 130m above ground level and a width
(north/south) of 35m. Its internal structure is divided into two basement levels
and five levels above ground. All floors, including -1, share space between
public areas and those dedicated to Museum's administration, services, and
research.
The architectural idea was born from the search for the right balance
between the need for flexibility on one hand and the need to cater for
scientific content on the other.
The main themes of the exhibition are recognisable by their form and volume
while the flexibility of large exhibition spaces - typical of the latest
generation of museums - is maintained. The building consists of a sequence of
spaces and volumes, solids and voids, lying on a large body of water on which
they appear to float, multiplying the impact and vibration of light and
shadows.
The structure appears to be held together from above, with a large
pitched roof that follows the curves of the building and is a quickly
recognisable feature.