Get ready for an exciting journey as we delve into the transformation of one of the world's most iconic museums! The Louvre, a cultural beacon in Paris, is about to undergo a radical reimagining.
Five visionary teams have been shortlisted for the ambitious Louvre - Nouvelle Renaissance project, a scientific, cultural, and architectural endeavor announced by Emmanuel Macron in 2025. With over a hundred submissions from around the globe, the competition has reached a crucial milestone.
The jury, comprising twenty-one esteemed members, has carefully reviewed the proposals and selected the following finalists: Amanda Levete Architects (AL_A) in collaboration with NC Nathalie Crinière and others; Architecture Studio joined by Diller Scofidio + Renfro and more; Dubuisson Architecture alongside SANAA and Dan Pearson Studio; Sou Fujimoto Ateliers Paris with his team; and STUDIOS Architecture partnering with Selldorf Architects.
But here's where it gets controversial... Each team brings a unique vision to the table, aiming to redefine the visitor experience at the Louvre. The project, Louvre - Nouvelle Renaissance, envisions a renewal of the museum's infrastructure, creating new spaces and access points that will transform how we engage with this cultural treasure.
The first component, Louvre - Grande Colonnade, focuses on the eastern section of the palace, restoring the original vision of Louis XIV's facade. This will provide new public entrances, easing congestion and offering a more welcoming experience. Beneath the Cour Carrée, an underground expansion will create an additional wing, including a dedicated gallery for the Mona Lisa, aiming to redistribute the intense visitor flow.
A grand exhibition hall is also planned, enhancing the Louvre's role as a contemporary cultural hub. The broader goal is to reconnect the museum with its urban surroundings, from the Grande Colonnade's moats to the Place du Louvre's facades.
And this is the part most people miss... The second component, Louvre Demain, is a long-term masterplan to ensure the museum's sustainability and accessibility for the 21st century. Under the supervision of François Chatillon, the project aims to balance the historic grandeur of the palace with contemporary needs, completing the vision of the Grand Louvre project of the 1980s and 1990s.
So, which team's vision will shape the future of the Louvre? And what impact will this transformation have on the visitor experience? These are questions we can explore further. What are your thoughts on this exciting development? Feel free to share your opinions and engage in the discussion below!
