The beautiful historical site represents a chance for subtle unique rearrangement with its own identity. We propose to arrange entrance and exhibition hall under the main square, which is surrounded by three charming, historical buildings.
The new space intervention is seen only by four gentle skylights, which give a new meaning to the existing square, they let the existing architecture to still be seen, as well as they alert that there is something else going on underground. They visually connect old part of the complex with the new one. Skylight would provide natural diffuse light inside the interior that is perfect for different exhibition layouts and variable events. The shape of the skylights creates a form of a bowl that creates exterior multifunctional gathering space.
This is a space where visitors can rest and contemplate and it also offers possibility for small outdoor events and concerts. Main entrance is through the ramp that emphasis existing axis. The ramp allows existing trees to be kept. One enters the main lobby where shop and ticket sales are organised. From the lobby there are entrances to Sonderausstellung / Multifunktionsraum and Dauerausstellung, as well as to the caffe and the pedagogical part of the museum. The Sonderausstellung is in the heart of the new building. The skylights are above it, so one can see inside this space from the square. The Dauerasustelung is arranged as a clear, circular path around the Sonderausstellung space.
Another intervation in the space is the new extension to the Gärtnershaus in which the new Seminar center is arranged.
The new proposal reinstates new comunication box, which connects the Center, the square and the underground museum. The extension is very subtile, detached from the existing facade and made completely out of glass. It lets the existing house to remain in original state. All the new exhibition spaces as well as the lobby is arranged underground. From the lobby there is the direct connection to the cafe and the Pedagogikscentrum on the groundfloor.
The Pedagogical center is positioned in the existing Gärtnerhaus, while the Museumsgastromie is organised in the ground floof ot he Siegfrids house. Basement floor and the first floor of the Siegfridshaus are used as Depo space. In this way, depo is well connected to the exhibition spaces. All the administration, the library and the archives that used to be in the Siegfridshaus are moved to the Chamberlains haus.
The main materials used for the new building of the Richard Wagner Museum are concrete and glass. Preinforced concrete enables to organise the big, open underground space with four big skylights, while on the ground level, glass creates a subtile, gentle constructions, which do not oppose the existing architecture.
