June 1, 2009
Architect: Herzog & De Muron
Date: 2008
Location: Madrid, Spain
In Spain it is common for banks to create free cultural institutions and the Caixa Forum is one of the prominent examples. The bank la Caixa commissioned Herzog & de Meuron to design this building. The building is built within and on top of the hollowed out existing industrial building.
Caixa Forum
Although the building looks very heavy the entire facade appears as if it is floating above the plaza that makes up the lower floor.
Caixa Forum Plaza
In the center of the plaza under the building is the staircase which takes you up the the main floor of the museum.
Caixa Forum Entry Stairs
Once on the main floor one proceeds to the main stairwell where they notice they are but in the middle of the building with about the same amount of stairs going up as going down. Heading up leads to the galleries where the works are exhibited and moments where you can get a glimpse of the city around through the new steel facade.
Caixa Forum Facade
Heading down the stairs brings you to the auditorium.
Caixa Forum Auditorium
Caixa Forum Auditorium Sketch
After wandering around the building we were given our first official drawing assignment before we headed on with the day.
Tags: Herzog & de Meuron, Madrid, museum, sketch