ARAB WORLD INSTITUTE (AWI)

The Arab World Institute (AWI) is a unique and therefore quite outstanding building, in several respects – for an original public utility function, an undeniable architectural and urban qualities, a noticeable expression of innovative technology and a status as a major 20th century architectural work. 26 years after its opening, the AWI has to cope with particular issues concerning spatial dysfunctions – the building does not meet today’s established standards for safety and security.

FAA’s project differed from the other competition entries on three general principles. The Office’s final project was constructed in accordance with the latters.

• Opening the site out towards the city: Like the Venetian ‘Campi’, the esplanade becomes a square around which different ‘free public access’ programmes are organized – a literary café that helps ease congestion in the museum lobby, and a green patio that provides basement facilities with natural light.
• Creating a didactic platform at ground-floor level and magnify the genius loci: Large bay windows are set in place to open up the base of the building. The museum lobby is reconnected to the esplanade. The focus is put on enhancing the attractiveness of the IMA, especially via a providing a clear picture of the proposed activities.
• Creating new levels to introduce a variety of programmes and optimization of circulations within the museum: The former parking levels are used to provide additional accommodation for the museum. This is made possible through a complete redesign, by removing levels so as to retrieve the height beneath the ceiling and benefit from better light. In addition, for a better orientation, a continuous visit tour is established within the museum provided with intuitive signage, and green patios are added to the different levels.