Lina Ghotmeh to Lead Design of the Jadids’ Legacy Museum in Bukhara, Uzbekistan
The Uzbekistan Art and Culture Development Foundation has recently announced the appointment of architect Lina Ghotmeh to design a new museum in the heart of Bukhara, dedicated to the legacy of the Jadid movement, a reformist educational and social initiative in Central Asia. The project will transform the historic residence of Usmon Khodjaev, the first president of the Bukhara People’s Republic, into a contemporary cultural destination, with plans to open by 2027.
The Project and Its Historical Context
The museum is located next to Lyabi-Hauz Square, a 17th-century social hub in Bukhara. Using Khodjaev’s former residence as the museum’s core presents a dual challenge: preserving the building’s historical character while creating a modern, engaging public space.
Architectural Approach and Critique
Ghotmeh is known for her “Archaeology of the Future” approach, aiming to blend historical memory with contemporary architecture. However, early observations suggest the project may struggle to balance authenticity with innovation, especially in a city layered with rich historical and cultural significance like Bukhara.
Project Goals and Stakeholders
The museum is part of a broader strategy by the foundation to elevate Uzbekistan’s cultural presence globally, following initiatives such as Tadao Ando’s National Museum of Uzbekistan and the Tashkent Centre for Contemporary Arts. The project demands careful coordination between architects and governmental bodies to ensure heritage standards are maintained without undermining the historical essence of the residence.
Vision and Concerns
Ghotmeh has expressed her admiration for the Jadids’ efforts to reform education and society, particularly the central role of women in social transformation. Yet, as an architect, one must question whether the design can effectively convey these values to visitors in a tangible way, rather than becoming a static monument or a structure that feels detached from its historical context.
The project is currently in the design phase, with construction expected to commence ahead of the 2027 opening. Ghotmeh and her team face the critical challenge of integrating modern architecture with historical preservation an essential test of their ability to create a museum that reflects the cultural depth of the Jadid movement while remaining connected to its place and history.
✦ ArchUp Editorial Insight
This article examines the Jadids’ Legacy Museum in Bukhara, focusing on the transformation of a historic residence into a contemporary cultural destination. The images reveal a contrast between traditional stone materials and open interior spaces, integrating modern elements within a historic framework. However, the project raises questions about its ability to preserve the city’s historical context while providing a contemporary visitor experience, as the modern interventions could dilute the site’s cultural authenticity. Nonetheless, the museum offers significant educational value, providing a platform to reinterpret the Jadid movement’s legacy in relation to current social and educational practices.
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