Eric RuiQi Ai

Thesis Statement: Architecture can serve as a narrative tool capable of weaving history, present, and future threads into a cohesive spatial experience. This Thesis redefines museums as more than just containers of artifacts but as active participants in the city’s ongoing narrative. It becomes a place where communities and visitors can explore the depths of Bern’s history, learn about its present, and imagine its future.

The design concept will introduce the concept of Bern’s old city wall and transform it into a dynamic and reflective “mirror space,” connecting different periods and promoting a dialogue between the old and new cities. Not only paying homage to the city’s rich history but also pushing it into the future and providing a unique perspective on the evolution of urban space.

The design approach emphasizes the down-sampling of the substantial architecture of historic buildings into a framework of lightness and transparency. This process involves transforming dense, opaque structures into ethereal glass constructs that foster a profound connection with their historical and social milieu. This architectural metamorphosis flexes the texture of time, facilitating a visual journey that effortlessly interweaves past, present, and future. it will become a dynamic platform for historical dialogue, contemporary relevance, and future expectations.