A visionary design for the new National Museum of Ecuador (MuNA) in Quito, crafted by Studio Alberto Campo Baeza and MAODA, has been retracted by the government. This decision, taken after an online petition amassed 20,000 signatures, highlights public disapproval of the design’s massive, block-like structure that seemed mismatched with Ecuador’s national identity.
The controversial design was a collaborative project by Studio Alberto Campo Baeza and local firm MOADA. It envisioned the MuNA as a cubic monolith with seven vertically-aligned courtyards, nestled adjacent to La Carolina Park. Dubbed “Echoes of the Sun,” the 36,000-square-metre edifice was designed to house 1.4 million heritage objects, celebrating the interplay of light and shadow against Quito’s Andean backdrop. However, public sentiment steered the project back to competition.
“As minister, I fully support this decision,” stated Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure Roberto Luque in a statement posted to X. “The project must resonate with the city and fulfill what Quito and the country deserve.”
Architects Advocate for Open Dialogue
In a joint response published on Instagram, Campo Baeza and MOADA asserted their stance in a post titled “In Defence of Public, Free and Open Architectural Competitions.” They argued for the value of public discourse, referencing iconic projects like the Sydney Opera House. “This debate should have improved the project, yet we were excluded from the conversation,” they highlighted, emphasizing the breach of competition transparency.
The revamped competition will now include all 17 original finalists, with contenders like MCM+A and the innovative Japanese duo SANAA poised to reshape the museum’s future. Alejandro Zaera-Polo, among the eight-member jury, judged the initial 148 submissions, reflecting the high stakes and prestige surrounding this cultural landmark.
To see how architectural vision can transform urban contexts, check out MVRDV’s proposal for the Taoyuan Museum and its bold color choices.
The evolving scenario around MuNA resonates with Ecuador’s dynamic landscape, spotlighting tensions around cultural representation and urban integration. The decision underscores the importance of aligning architectural expressions with public sentiment—a balancing act of respecting artistic vision while honoring popular will.
For another take on reshaping spaces, explore how Eco-Innovation in Ecuador exemplifies sustainable architectural practices in local settings.
Sources & Links
Source: dezeen.com