Construction has officially begun on the National Museum of Uzbekistan in Tashkent, designed by renowned Japanese architect Tadao Ando. The groundbreaking project will feature interconnected concrete structures composed of geometric shapes including squares, circles, and triangles, marking Ando's first major architectural endeavor in Central Asia.
Located in the heart of Uzbekistan's capital city, the museum complex will house both the National Museum of Uzbekistan and a library within its innovative design. The architectural concept consists of a square building and a circular building connected by a central triangular structure, creating a cohesive yet dynamic composition that draws inspiration from Uzbekistan's rich architectural heritage.
"By building with these pure forms, I wanted to return to the origins of thought and create a space from which powerful ideas could be sent out into the world," Ando explained. "I hope that the museum will serve as a new center of creative expression directed towards the world." The minimalist design emphasizes natural light and aims to provide a serene yet powerful backdrop for the museum's collection.
The design features several distinctive architectural elements, including large oval-shaped openings that connect the interior spaces with the outside environment. A grand exterior staircase will lead visitors up to the museum buildings from ground level, while a roof terrace will crown the square-shaped concrete building. All three buildings will feature walkable, interconnected rooftops, allowing visitors to experience the architecture from multiple perspectives.
According to the Uzbekistan Art and Culture Development Foundation (ACDF), which is spearheading the project, the museum will showcase both artworks from Uzbekistan's national collections and newly acquired pieces that reflect the country's evolving cultural identity. The space is designed to function as both a cultural and civic hub for Tashkent, serving the community beyond traditional museum functions.
Uzbekistan President Shavkat Mirziyoyev emphasized the project's significance, stating, "The National Museum of Uzbekistan reflects our revitalized cultural potential and serves as a vivid expression of our noble aspirations to create creative spaces that inspire, unite, and set an example for future generations. It will stand as a majestic symbol of the new Uzbekistan, representing its rich heritage and openness to the world."
The interior exhibition design will be handled by German studio Atelier Brückner, which also designed the Uzbekistan Pavilion at Expo 2025 Osaka. The firm is working closely with Ando to create an immersive experience that combines narrative and sensory elements to engage visitors' imaginations. The interior will feature Ando's signature concrete walls, maintaining the architect's distinctive aesthetic throughout the space.
This latest project adds to Ando's impressive portfolio of recent works, which includes a subterranean concrete dome designed for an installation by artist Antony Gormley and a Bulgari watch design inspired by serpents. The National Museum of Uzbekistan is scheduled to open its doors to the public in March 2028, promising to become a landmark destination for both local residents and international visitors seeking to explore Uzbekistan's cultural heritage and contemporary artistic expression.
