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rome revisited: augsburg’s ancient past
transforming existing structures into museums
building in existing structures
The museum is housed in the repurposed sorting facility within the State Textile and Industry Museum Augsburg (TIM). Originally designed by Jean Keller, the building was partially modified after sustaining wartime damage. A key aspect of the adaptive reuse strategy was to restore elements of the historic façade without attempting a full reconstruction. The design balances architectural preservation with the creation of a cohesive museum experience.
The exhibition begins on the upper floor, where visitors arrive by elevator, stepping directly into the display area. From there, the spatial sequence encourages a gradual, more reflective journey as visitors descend via a central staircase. Natural light from the north defines the upper levels, while the lower floors employ a refined LED lighting scheme to enhance atmosphere and focus. This journey concludes in the final highlight: a dramatic double-height space, offering an expansive setting for large-scale exhibits and a memorable closing impression.
Foundations Uncovered: The Roman Areal Exhibition
This unique space emphasizes the intimate scale of Roman architecture, inviting visitors to experience the built environment in a way that highlights its proportion and relationship to human scale, reflecting the significance of its original founding. Raw materials such as exposed masonry and concrete highlight the authenticity and tactile quality of the structure. In contrast, carefully designed LED lighting introduces a contemporary element, creating a compelling dialogue between past and present. The museum’s lighting concept amplifies this interplay, casting dynamic shadows and highlights that evoke the timeless spirit of the Roman era while immersing visitors in a raw, sensory atmosphere.
Interactive Discovery Area
Engaging children through an immersive experience that highlights the relationship between humans and their environment. This dynamic space uses key design elements—carefully crafted lighting, interior materials, and thoughtful spatial arrangements—to create a captivating atmosphere. Instead of just showcasing artifacts, the focus is on how visitors, including children, inhabit and connect with the surroundings, making the museum visit an explorative journey that stimulates curiosity and the senses.