Lisbon's iconic Museu Calouste Gulbenkian has undergone a transformative renovation, returning to its mid-century modern roots. This 18-month project, costing €7.8 million, aimed to restore the museum's original 1969 grandeur, addressing essential systems like security, fire safety, ventilation, and lighting. The museum, named after the Armenian tycoon and collector, Calouste Gulbenkian, who amassed a vast fortune in the early 20th century, is a testament to his eclectic taste in art and design. The renovation, led by Xavier Salomon, the museum's director, and architects Teresa Nunes da Ponte and Frédéric Ladonne, has breathed new life into the space, preserving its Brutalist aesthetic with a Japanese influence. The result is a harmonious blend of the past and present, where the museum's treasures are displayed in a way that respects the original vision while enhancing the visitor experience. The renovation has also introduced practical improvements, such as anti-reflective glass and LED lighting, which increase legibility and maintain the museum's architectural purity. One of the most notable changes is the redesign of the Islamic world section, where 14th-century Mamluk mosque lamps now shine brightly in individual vitrines, and the Asia galleries have been transformed with a more accessible display case. The renovation has also added a new numismatic cabinet for coins and moved the Assyrian winged-guardian relief to a more prominent position. A gallery dedicated to French designer René Lalique now showcases Art Nouveau and Art Deco glassware and jewelry, creating a captivating dialogue with paintings by Edward Burne-Jones and John Singer Sargent. The museum's new approach to labeling, with short and concise text, and the absence of multimedia screens, aligns with the original 1969 design philosophy. This renovation not only restores the museum's historical significance but also reinforces its unique relationship between art, architecture, and nature, making it a must-visit destination for art enthusiasts and architecture aficionados alike.
