Alfred Mansfeld and interior designer Dora Gad designed the Israel’s National Museum in 1965, in the Givat Ram area of Jerusalem near the Knesset governmental center. Completed just a few years after Israel’s independence because of the insistence of mayor Teddy Kollek, the museum complex represents the revived heritage of the Jewish people.
The Minimalist design has undergone a $100-million renovation in 2010 with expanded wings, a new entrance pavilion, and connecting passageways. James Carpenter (JDCA), Efrat-Kowalsky Architects of Tel Aviv, and A. Lerman Architects brought the site together into a stunning scene of sprawling pavilions.
The Dead Sea Scrolls are housed inside the bell-shaped white Shrine of the Book dome, by Frederick Kiesler and Armand Bartos. Each 120 square foot building is treated as a module, with cast-in-place concrete and limestone, and unshaded clerestory windows that speak to local designs. James Carpenter’s addition bring transparent glass into the arrangement with better connection and cohesion. Replaced protective glass in the original buildings allow the clerestory windows to once again shine natural light onto the art work and connect visitors with the beautiful site.
More Info, NYT Review
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