Simose Art Museum in Hiroshima crowned as the most beautiful museum in the world

Key Points

• The Simose Art Museum in Hiroshima has been recognized as the most beautiful museum in the world at the 2024 Versailles Prize .
• The museum was designed by renowned architect Shigeru Ban and completed in 2023.
• The Versailles Prize celebrates exceptional contemporary architectural projects on a global scale.
• The innovative design of the Simose Art Museum features floating glass galleries and reflective design elements.

Architectural Marvel: Simose Art Museum Gains Global Recognition

Shigeru Ban Architects has once again set new standards in design with the Simose Art Museum in Hiroshima, Japan. This architectural marvel, voted "the most beautiful museum in the world" at the Prix Versailles, exemplifies the firm's commitment to marrying traditional Japanese beauty with modern structural solutions.

Notable features of the museum include galleries floating on water and an impressive wooden structure that pays homage to Japan’s cultural heritage. By incorporating elements such as traditional shoji screens, Shigeru Ban has designed a harmonious space that beautifully blends tradition and modernity. This unique and adaptable layout never fails to captivate visitors.

“This was my first opportunity to design a museum freely, without any limitations or prejudices,” said Shigeru Ban, the Pritzker Prize-winning architect behind the project. “I am truly grateful for this recognition from the Prix Versailles jury.”

The museum’s mobile galleries embody its commitment to innovation and flexibility. These modular spaces provide the opportunity to present ever-changing and captivating exhibitions. In addition, a 180-metre-long and 8.5-metre-high mirrored glass wall adds a dramatic dimension to the museum’s architecture.

The Prix Versailles jury praised the Simose Art Museum for its bold design, creativity and ability to harmoniously combine local heritage and ecological sustainability. This recognition reinforces Shigeru Ban Architects’ position as a world leader in the design of exceptional cultural spaces, continually redefining the standards of contemporary architecture.