Designed by JKMM Architects, Amos Rex Underground Museum has its origins in the Amos Anderson Art Museum, which since 1965 has been Helsinki?s leading private museum. To meet changes in the practice and display of contemporary art in the 21st Century, the trustees of the Amos Anderson Art Museum concluded that a new venue would be better suited for providing new art experiences than the museum?s existing accommodation in converted newspaper offices. The nearby Lasipalatsi building, one of Finland?s best-preserved examples of 1930s functionalist architecture was identified as a new home for the museum.
Photography: Mika Huisman
The Lasipalatsi has been comprehensively refurbished as part of the project, with special care given to preserve original features that include the first external neon lighting in Finland. Detailed research from historical sources as well as analysis of material on-site, conducted in partnership with the Helsinki City Museum, allowed JKMM to recreate a palette of materials and colors that are true to the original design.
Bio Rex, the 590 seat cinema within the Lasipalatsi building has been restored to its 1930s glory and incorporated into the new institution, giving half of its name to create the Amos Rex identity.
Photography: Tuomas Uusheimo
From the foyer of the refurbished Lasipalatsi, visitors descend a staircase past a picture window that affords views over the public square, into the underground museum. The roof of the new gallery is formed by...