The proposal of the Japanese firm of Kengo Kuma for the Natural History Museum of Copenhagen is an example of green architecture on a grand scale. The ultra modern sunken space is merged with the surrounding botanical gardens which the architects have termed, ‘Garden of Natural History.’ The experience begins with the entrance to the structure through the gardens which offer glimpses of the exhibits inside the museum.
The whole structure is glazed to its full height to allow visibility of the garden from within and the exhibits of the museum from the garden. In addition, natural daylight floods the space throughout the day. The exhibits appear to be suspended in a natural environment, adding to the experience of the visitors. Rest areas have been incorporated into the design with relaxing views of the garden for the enjoyment of the patrons of the museum.
