Aga Khan Museum
The Aga Khan Museum fosters knowledge and understanding of Islamic civilization through cultural programming and an extraordinary collection of Islamic arts and artifacts, drawn from the collections of His Highness the Aga Khan, Prince and Princess Sadruddin Aga Khan and the Institute of Ismaili Studies in London.
photography by © Maki and Associates
Light being the primary inspiration for the project, the building acts as a vessel that is both animated and sculpted by light in myriad ways: casting patterns on the exterior walls of Brazilian granite, enhancing interior spaces, or illuminating the open-roofed courtyard.
The building contains two large exhibition galleries, art conservation and storage spaces, a 350-seat theater, and classrooms. The contemporary design incorporates historical elements originating in Islamic cultures, building bridges between eras and civilizations.
photography by © Maki and Associates
Set within a 6.8-hectare park (designed by Vladimir Djurovic with Moriyama & Teshima Planners), the Museum shares a site with the Ismaili Centre (designed by Charles Correa with Moriyama & Teshima Architects). The complex is a symbolic marker of the permanent presence of the Ismaili community in Canada and promotes cultural, religious and intellectual exploration.
photography by © Maki and Associates
Project Info
Architects: Moriyama & Teshima Architects, Maki and Associates
Location: Toronto, Canada
Size: 129,167 sqft.
Year: 2014
Type: Museum, Cultural center
Hadeer Shahin is the Built Projects Editor at Arch2O, where she curates innovative architectural works from around the globe. With a background in architecture from Alexandria University and hands-on experience in design and digital content, she bridges the gap between technical precision and editorial vision. Hadeer’s keen eye for spatial storytelling and her passion for contemporary design trends make her a vital contributor to Arch2O’s mission of highlighting excellence in the built environment.