Introduction

Bjarke Ingels Group (BIG) has won the international competition to design the Hungarian Natural History Museum in Debrecen, Hungary’s second-largest city. This 23,000-square-metre museum integrates seamlessly into the landscape of the historic Great Forest. It emerges as a sculpted hub for scientific discovery.

Design Concept

The museum’s design features three overlapping landscaped ribbons. These rise organically from the forest floor, creating a dynamic and functional structure. The project blurs the line between architecture and nature. With a mass timber framework clad in locally sourced charred wood, it enhances its connection to the surrounding parkland. The Hungarian Natural History Museum design perfectly merges these elements.

🇬🇧 Panoramic view of an eco-museum in the forest — 🇬🇧 The museum’s design highlights how architecture can strengthen the connection between city and nature

Architectural Features

Visitors approach the museum via winding forest paths and open plazas. The southern entrance plaza serves as a vibrant community space. Inside, the Hungarian Natural History Museum design includes five permanent galleries, a temporary exhibition wing, and a library. There is also a restaurant with views into the forest canopy. A subterranean learning hub offers research labs, workshops, and play areas for students and families.

The green roofs of the building, planted with native species, not only expand the surrounding park but also contribute to the museum’s ecological mission. They create habitats for local flora and fauna. Energy systems such as geothermal loops and photovoltaic panels ensure a stable indoor climate year-round. This showcases the Hungarian Natural History Museum design’s commitment to sustainability.

Environmental Integration

BIG’s vision for the Hungarian Natural History Museum emphasises sustainability. The mass timber structure and its energy-efficient systems, including on-site renewable energy sources, ensure the building integrates with and enhances its environment. The project regenerates biodiversity, adapting quietly to the natural surroundings. This thoughtful approach reflects the principles of the Hungarian Natural History Museum design.

🇬🇧 Wooden façade of a modern museum with warm interior lighting — 🇬🇧 The museum entrance features an elegant design that conveys a sense of welcome and harmony with nature

Collaborative Effort

The museum’s design is developed in collaboration with Vikár és Lukács Építész Stúdió, Museum Studio, and TYPSA. It aligns with Hungary’s government vision of transforming Debrecen into a regional centre for education and culture by 2030.