Subterranean Architecture

Contemporary art museum with flexible gallery spaces

Introduction

Subterranean Architecture is not a new concept it has been there since the primitive age of human
era. Caves, tunnels etc. were used by humans to seek shelter back then. Combining this with modern
architectural advancements results in spaces which overcomes the shortcomings of natural caves
and tunnels while at the same time provides the positive features of nature like climate and
temperature control, warmness of the gloomy lighting etc.

Spaces like abandoned mines, quarries, tunnels, bunkers and catacombs can offer just the right
combination of spaciousness, moodiness, natural drama and a sense of gravity to house museums
and other such buildings. Often making use of the natural raw, rocky walls, cavernous proportions
and the temperature-regulating insulation of the earth, these underground museums give us
opportunities to explore spaces that are very close to nature.

Need for museums and Galleries

For people who aren’t passionate about places can often feel that such institutions are merely places
where forgotten objects go to enjoy their final years.

But despite this, there’s a strong case to be made that the museum is more relevant today than it
has ever been. From addressing key social issues to transforming how we see the future, the humble
museum has the power to reflect and shape our social

Digitalisation, innovation and interaction

Thanks to the rise in technology over the last two decades, what it means to be a museum is being
questioned and challenged. Modern tech is transforming museums from spaces of looking and
learning to spaces of interaction, participation and engagement.

Bringing communities together

Museums have the power to create unity on both a social and political level, but also on a local one.
Local museums are able to provide a sense of community and place by celebrating a collective
heritage, offering a great way to get to know the history of a particular area.
Learning from the past

First and foremost, museums and galleries provide an insight into the history of humankind. And
while no museum can claim to provide a complete picture, the lessons we can learn from past
events, wonders and tragedies are priceless.

Objective

To create an art/architectural museum linking the past and present and providing different features
which adds to the user experience of the museum – Example usage of underground structures,
Touch responsive instalments etc. which leave an impact in the minds of users.

Ecologically sensitive designing like usage of earth berms thus using the temperature stabilising
power of earth and hence making the space climatically comfortable to be in.

Using architecture to create an atmosphere which makes the users aware of the social and political
issues of the society.

Scope

This thesis report provides an opportunity to research further into the types of eco sensitive
subterranean design techniques as well as modern technological improvements like touch
responsive installations.