Ventilated concrete facade of the Museum of Asian Art at UT Dallas.
Ventilated Concrete Facade. The new Crow Asian Art Museum at the University of Texas at Dallas, designed by Morphosis, features a striking ventilated concrete façade. The building is part of the O’Donnell Athenaeum Arts Campus. Here are the key design elements:
- Raised Galleries: The museum galleries are located mainly on the upper floor, supported by large V-shaped beams. This design creates a sense of openness and provides shaded walkways around the building.Concrete Ventilated Facade: The ventilated façade is clad in sandblasted white precast concrete mixed with silica, with patterns inspired by the museum’s collection. Horizontal cuts in the concrete slabs allow natural light to penetrate the interior.
Glass Elements: A large glass wall and ceiling on the south side create a partial atrium, allowing light to flood the entrance hall. This space connects the main structure with the extended Bar Galleries.
Covered Bridges: Bridges and mezzanines connect the different parts of the building, improving circulation and providing additional covered spaces outside.
The design aims to create an inviting and dynamic space that encourages interaction with both the art and the surroundings. The facade of this building is a perfect example of the harmonious combination of aesthetics and functionality. The use of modern materials and technologies, such as precast concrete and large glazing, allows for the creation of a space that is both beautiful and practical. This project demonstrates how important it is to understand the context and function of a building when creating its facade.
