--- title: "Museum of Art & Photography (MAP) Design | Mathew & Ghosh Architects" description: "Explore the architectural vision behind Bengaluru's MAP museum. We specialize in contextual, human-centric institutional design and cultural space planning." canonical: https://mytribe.in/architects_mathewghosh/urban-design-master-planning/museum-of-art-photography-map-a-cultural-landmark-for-bengaluru last_updated: 2025-09-12 --- # The Architecture of MAP: A Cultural Landmark in Bengaluru Tribe Verified · Designed iconic Bengaluru cultural landmarks By [Mathew and Ghosh](https://mytribe.in/architects_mathewghosh) · Visit Studio in Koramangala; Projects across Bengaluru & India · ₹220 per sq. ft. of built-up area (estimate) Part of [Urban Design & Master Planning](https://mytribe.in/architects_mathewghosh/urban-design-master-planning). [View full gallery](https://mytribe.in/architects_mathewghosh/urban-design-master-planning/gallery) The Museum of Art and Photography is designed as a 'tanki' for art, playing on the tension between storing culture and making it accessible. We built this as a public, democratic hub that reflects the city's spirit. ## Photos and videos - ![The entrance to MAP is marked by a symbolic tree-like column, grounding the modern structure and creating a welcoming transition from the street into the world of art.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/e2816743-9c5a-4fe4-a3d5-0959636001ed) - ![An aerial view at night shows MAP as a beacon in Bengaluru's museum quarter, its illuminated form contributing to the city's vibrant cultural life.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/2e72c660-d969-4ab6-a587-5d2ce782ec0a) - ![The sculpture court is a semi-open gallery, blurring the line between inside and outside. It allows art to be experienced with natural light and a connection to the surrounding trees, creating a serene, contemplative atmosphere.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/584e16a0-dee6-432c-b045-7560e0b34a62) - [Video: The play of light is central to the museum's experience. Dichroic film on the windows transforms the stairways into a dynamic kaleidoscope of color, changing with the sun's movement and creating moments of unexpected beauty.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/c65ae994-428b-4176-8dfb-2c6404f53d64) - ![From the upper levels, the museum frames views of the Bengaluru skyline, connecting the art within to the city outside. This visual link reinforces the museum's role as a contemporary urban institution.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/509eff9d-2b80-4f19-bfaa-f17ce24c0e2a) - ![The threshold where the street meets the museum is a critical space. Here, a man rests on his tractor in front of a public art wall, a moment that captures our goal of making art accessible and part of everyday city life.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/0187c5e7-467e-4f1c-b2a3-ca285be939a0) - ![Looking up from the ground, the museum's geometric facade appears to emerge from the canopy of a large, preserved tree, illustrating our commitment to integrating nature with architecture.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/bf612511-eb5c-4bda-9008-2a752aa16428) - ![The museum's facade, with its pattern of pressed stainless steel panels, engages with the public at street level, its texture and scale designed to be a part of the pedestrian experience.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/edea238f-1dce-4586-85aa-7fc0a268cd31) - ![Quiet corners and courtyards are woven into the museum's design, offering visitors intimate spaces for rest and reflection away from the main galleries.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/7e99354d-98a3-49be-a43c-eda56f2b6fa3) - ![Every detail is considered, down to the custom-designed grates that allow for drainage while adding a textural, crafted element to the ground plane.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/c7fc087a-dedd-42fc-9495-e7f036a9db98) - ![We often lead architectural walks through our buildings. Here, I am explaining how we used light as a material to shape the experience within the museum's galleries.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/f84ee5c2-0518-426a-bd89-ef886817e4da) - ![This collage from an Elle Decor feature shows the diverse scales of our work, placing the grand, tiered seating of Byg Brewski alongside the striking facade of the MAP museum.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/ce8b31d0-e00f-4def-a4bc-f7058c6d18b7) - ![A portrait of us at the MAP site, featured in Architectural Digest. The building behind us is the result of years of collaborative effort and a shared vision.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/06a83094-78ad-4eaa-ae64-54b47df145a8) - ![The curved canopy at the entrance provides shelter and guides visitors inward, its gentle form contrasting with the sharp geometry of the main building.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/4555f2fb-b767-4dcb-803a-2ba6b93c516e) - ![A view of the entrance canopy, showing how it creates a soft, welcoming gesture for visitors arriving at the museum.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/bc393861-e32a-4d99-97df-a4497880e60c) - ![A worm's-eye view captures the dialogue between the man-made structure of the museum and the organic form of the tree canopy.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/024357dd-18cf-48c0-91f3-22482b7d3b0d) - ![An overhead view of the cafe courtyard, a secluded space designed for quiet contemplation and conversation within the museum complex.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/99d2b691-1525-440f-b4e9-b6ffd3fa7d5d) - ![The museum's main entrance and textured facade as seen from the street, becoming a part of the daily life of Bengaluru.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/e5bc5ec2-7388-4162-a4ac-4426cc6769b0) - ![The view from the cafe courtyard looking up, where the building's reflective surfaces capture the sky and surrounding trees.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/ed26cffd-f5a3-46d6-8875-6709234af540) - ![Another perspective from the courtyard, highlighting the interplay of architectural forms, glass, and the natural foliage.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/65312ab6-87bd-4e00-bd47-4f46f66e5cf5) - ![This image captures the layered views from the courtyard, with the curved entrance canopy set against the angular lines of the museum facade.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/058567e2-1afa-4c65-90ff-be1824423876) - ![The reflective glass of the museum's lower level mirrors the sky and trees, integrating the building into its environment.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/f7dc33d7-5767-4cb5-925e-88a2c051d4c3) - ![A feature on our notable works, this image highlights the Museum of Art & Photography's stainless steel-clad structure and its role in redefining the museum experience in India.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/c0752365-28f1-4531-8af4-a862c8a0cc36) - ![A duplicate of the feature on MAP, emphasizing its innovative design and contribution to Bengaluru's cultural landscape.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/d6dbd415-32b2-4791-a3b1-98cc38133f16) - ![An ArchDaily article discussing our approach to cultural architecture in India, featuring the serene, light-filled sculpture gallery at MAP.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/69962e82-d6f8-4925-ad19-c039a753ea71) - ![A polished steel sculpture by L.N. Tallur at the museum's entrance reflects the surrounding environment, including the tree-like column that supports the building.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/0587394d-63f9-4d2f-950c-3d37bae32878) - ![The museum at night, with the public art wall creating an engaging and vibrant street presence that invites curiosity.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/ce4fe58b-7e8d-4cb5-9c0e-8bcef41e6d99) - ![The corner view of MAP at dusk, where the illuminated interior and the structural 'tree' column become prominent features.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/d8eaea0b-1195-443b-9214-db1d6bcb70ca) - ![Visitors in the semi-outdoor sculpture gallery, a space designed to connect the art collection with the natural elements of light and air.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/cf511f3e-aa4d-4574-a533-e35e98f7bfee) - ![An evening aerial shot showing MAP nestled within its urban context, its rooftop terrace activated with light and activity.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/8e455400-5e54-4e58-ab3d-950976e6fa24) - ![We were honored to be a finalist at the World Architecture Festival for our work on MAP, a project that represents our commitment to creating meaningful cultural spaces.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/8cd968be-6205-42ff-9965-f3fed286a16e) - ![The announcement of MAP as a World Architecture Festival 2023 finalist, celebrating its contribution to global cultural architecture.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/da452a72-3942-43f8-b9ad-db985e09f5bb) - ![Another view of the light-filled sculpture gallery, a key space that was highlighted in our presentation at the World Architecture Festival.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/4159ee28-1ab3-4385-ba33-5b8fa783b701) - ![A graphic celebrating MAP's recognition as a finalist at the prestigious World Architecture Festival in 2023.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/cb49deb9-be7a-42cf-9931-ca0befd5acb0) - ![The entrance of MAP, a project recognized by the World Architecture Festival for its unique cultural and architectural contributions.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/0556ebfc-bf87-4f67-abdb-df691abe4c0d) - ![A feature in The Hindu newspaper discussing the 'Indian Museum Makeover,' highlighting MAP's role in this cultural shift.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/f2d592d9-3a53-4c98-b7ee-d82179bd3f2b) - ![The cover of The Hindu's magazine section, featuring our work on MAP and its importance in curating new stories for the future.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/ae01aad6-0ae9-4164-8f9a-63a4decbee3c) - ![A duplicate of The Hindu magazine cover, emphasizing the role of private museums like MAP in celebrating India's heritage.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/a92d95ea-7f81-431b-8370-6dc4cbfaa5e4) - ![An inside look at The Hindu's feature on the evolution of museums in India, with a focus on the design and impact of MAP.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/957cf830-459d-47d8-a6f5-94d5645b2f2f) - ![The sharp, angular corner of the museum's facade seen through the branches of a tree, showcasing the contrast between geometric precision and natural forms.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/ef25349d-022a-48d0-b24d-e353f02b7258) - ![The public art wall at the base of the museum, its graphic text adding a layer of energy and accessibility to the building's exterior.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/4784e39d-b4c1-48c9-8106-dcdf266f732b) - ![The curved retaining wall and walkway at the museum's entrance on a rainy day, with the tree-column rising from a sunken court.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/95c9d716-0068-4fca-b2ec-031c4deb8dc8) - ![Sunlight filters through the overhead canopy of the sculpture gallery, casting dynamic shadows and highlighting the textures of the stone artworks.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/cc76efbe-f7c2-4c3e-aec9-f82a28cfe0c4) - ![A low-angle shot of the facade and the vibrant public art wall, creating a powerful visual statement at the street level.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/465c7080-2f84-4af3-9cab-2adbad119af6) - ![The sculpture gallery provides a tranquil, shaded space for viewing art, with a clear connection to the outdoors.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/432f8ac4-54b6-4e05-97a1-18d90748054a) - ![The building's corner juts out over the entrance, its metallic skin catching the evening light.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/b9362a0e-7161-4cd1-b34d-89c1bf0bff80) - ![Stone benches in the sculpture court offer a place for rest and contemplation, inviting visitors to spend time with the art in a peaceful setting.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/1a9c89a4-4d59-49b5-8424-091c61390f6b) - ![A wider view of the sculpture court, showing the seamless integration of seating, art, and architecture.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/6df266eb-ea11-41af-9f2d-867366db1ead) - ![The entrance path on a wet day, the granite and concrete textures darkened by the rain, highlighting the material palette.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/c004a0f3-aece-4268-94a4-f8f38d499f55) - ![A detail of the custom metal grating around a tree base, designed to be permeable and protect the root system.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/4929fbb0-8a8d-4375-8b22-82e75be2b9ea) - ![A duplicate of the stunning aerial night view of MAP, emphasizing its presence as a cultural hub in Bengaluru.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/348b4d1c-bf62-4f4c-be72-cc9b312a814b) - ![A duplicate of the entrance view, showing the symbolic tree-like column that grounds the modern structure.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/b7edeecc-4f01-46d0-bc47-02236e3a000c) - ![A feature in Livingetc magazine showcasing MAP at night, a testament to its impact on the city's architectural landscape.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/6d3f10d0-5b50-4784-8d92-bf4bb95fb404) - ![This image, published by Icon Magazine, captures the essence of MAP's design: a modern, sculptural form grounded by its symbolic entrance.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/fd592dbe-361c-48fd-88fc-c5682bcf8296) - ![The cover story of Icon Magazine, titled 'Bangalore's Radical Tanki,' delves into the architectural concept behind the museum.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/5ef86b16-bd6d-4fb8-8512-bacc0aec5c98) - ![An excerpt from the Icon Magazine article, explaining our design approach and the cultural context that shaped the museum.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/4b4a26cb-2a5a-4715-ae80-ec5e331344ca) - ![A photograph from the Icon feature, showing MAP's glowing facade at night, a landmark on the corner of Kasturba Road.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/2efe01d7-3faf-46e1-a783-919780b53f05) - ![Another perspective of the tractor driver resting before the museum's art wall, a powerful image of the intersection of art and daily life.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/c7c663e5-297f-4eb8-9960-02d985686d16) - ![A feature in Germany's prestigious DETAIL Magazine, recognizing the architectural significance of the Museum for Art and Photography in Bangalore.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/a544bb9c-e2c3-4852-898d-b1e3ba65d581) - [Video: This video from Architectural Digest offers a glimpse into the museum, explaining its purpose as a catalyst for change in the cultural sector.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/a0a1b9c0-04ce-4e5c-a1a1-803ba6d744c8) - ![A CNN Style feature on MAP, highlighting its role in tackling important social conversations through art and architecture.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/9ab23b33-6d41-4ba2-8d5e-9caa87506b51) - ![Excitement from the community on social media for the opening of MAP, a project we designed to be a new heart for art in the city.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/31385e15-faf7-4482-be66-771e18b20e98) - ![Featured in Dezeen magazine, this image shows MAP from across the street, capturing its relationship with the public realm and the flow of the city.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/2054d612-76ae-4292-a580-3c474740df72) - ![A night view from the Dezeen feature, focusing on the textured facade and the colorful glow from the dichroic glass windows.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/682c2828-daef-43ad-af31-479d24515463) - ![A view of the museum's entrance during the preview event, with marigold flowers adding a traditional celebratory touch to the modern setting.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/e05bda32-9768-4eb0-b2df-f56a2c155642) - ![The museum seen from above during its preview, the rooftop terrace alive with visitors against the backdrop of the city at night.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/7299aedc-0b48-4d44-bac9-bfdc205e6feb) ## About Museum of Art & Photography (MAP): A Cultural Landmark for Bengaluru One of the critical choices we made at MAP was using dichroic film on the stairwells. We did not want the museum to be a static object; we wanted the interior light to shift constantly, transforming with the sun and the movement of visitors. This is the level of detail we bring to every structural conversation: considering how light and time actually live within the walls we build. Architecture is rarely about just the final image. When we approached the Museum of Art and Photography, we were looking for a way to translate the post-industrial water tanks of old Bengaluru into a modern, cultural vessel. ### The 'Tanki' Concept We chose a compact, steel-framed structure clad in stainless steel to act as a 'tanki'—a repository. But unlike a static storage unit, this building is porous. The facade engages with the street at eye level, breaking down the invisible barrier between the public realm and the institution. ### Designing for Light and Flow Our design process is a slow dialogue. We studied the way light behaves in Bengaluru, using it as a primary material. By integrating dichroic elements, we created a kaleidoscope effect within the circulation paths, making the simple act of walking between galleries a dynamic experience. This is central to our approach: whether we are working on heritage restoration or new institutional construction, we prioritize how the building breathes. ### Sustainability and Context We believe a building must be a good neighbor. At MAP, we preserved the existing trees, letting the structure emerge from the canopy rather than dominating it. Our technical focus remains on: * **Material Honesty:** Utilizing durable, low-maintenance materials like stainless steel and stone that age well in the city climate. * **Public Accessibility:** Planning layouts that encourage movement, ensuring the building feels open and welcoming to the local community. * **Adaptive Engineering:** Structural solutions that handle high-footfall volumes without compromising the museum's quiet, contemplative atmosphere. We work with clients who value this process—those who understand that a building is not just a structure, but a long-term contribution to the city's fabric. ## About Mathew and Ghosh We are Mathew and Ghosh Architects. Bengaluru has been our home for three decades, and we build by listening to the stories already embedded in the city. Our work, whether it is a cultural institution like MAP or a private residence, is about persistence, craft, and making architecture that invites people to pause. [See all of Mathew and Ghosh's services](https://mytribe.in/architects_mathewghosh) ## More from Urban Design & Master Planning by Mathew and Ghosh - [Featured](https://mytribe.in/architects_mathewghosh/urban-design-master-planning/featured) - [Reimagining Heritage: Conservation & Adaptive Reuse](https://mytribe.in/architects_mathewghosh/urban-design-master-planning/reimagining-heritage-conservation-adaptive-reuse) - [Spaces for People: Public Parks & Social Hubs](https://mytribe.in/architects_mathewghosh/urban-design-master-planning/spaces-for-people-public-parks-social-hubs) - [Design for Remembrance: Memorial Architecture](https://mytribe.in/architects_mathewghosh/urban-design-master-planning/design-for-remembrance-memorial-architecture) - [From Sketch to Structure: Our Design Process](https://mytribe.in/architects_mathewghosh/urban-design-master-planning/from-sketch-to-structure-our-design-process) - [Our Voice: Press, Publications & Awards](https://mytribe.in/architects_mathewghosh/urban-design-master-planning/our-voice-press-publications-awards) - [Additional Works & Explorations](https://mytribe.in/architects_mathewghosh/urban-design-master-planning/additional-works-explorations) ## More services by Mathew and Ghosh - [Heritage Conservation & Adaptive Reuse](https://mytribe.in/architects_mathewghosh/heritage-conservation-adaptive-reuse) - [Interior Architecture & Design](https://mytribe.in/architects_mathewghosh/interior-architecture-design) - [Architectural Design for New Construction](https://mytribe.in/architects_mathewghosh/architectural-design-for-new-construction) ## Similar work from other experts - [Museum & Art Gallery Architectural Design](https://mytribe.in/rma_architects/institutional-cultural-architectural-design/museums-art-galleries-curating-cultural-experiences) by RMA Architects · Institutional & Cultural Architectural Design · Takes projects across India; Visit office in Kala Ghoda, Mumbai - [Cultural and Civic Architecture for Public Spaces](https://mytribe.in/spacesarchitects.ka/commercial-hospitality-interior-design/cultural-civic-architecture-building-for-the-community) by Kapil Krishan Aggarwal · Commercial & Hospitality Interior Design · Takes projects across India; Visit studio in South Extension II, New Delhi - [Community and Cultural Architecture Projects](https://mytribe.in/mqa_official/interior-design/community-cultural-spaces) by Qutub Mandviwala · Interior Design · Takes projects across India; Visit office in Mahalakshmi, Mumbai - [Landmark Architectural Designs and Modern Concepts](https://mytribe.in/architecturecontinuous/architectural-design/featured) by Architecture Continuous · Architectural Design · Projects across Karnataka; Visit Studio in J.P. Nagar - [Public & Cultural Architecture](https://mytribe.in/m9_designstudio/commercial-interior-design/public-cultural-spaces) by M9 Design Studio · Commercial Interior Design · Interior projects across India; Studio in Yeshwanthpur, Bengaluru - [Award-Winning Museum and Cultural Space Design](https://mytribe.in/studio_thirdspace/heritage-restoration-adaptive-reuse/award-winning-museum-cultural-spaces) by Thirdspace · Heritage Restoration & Adaptive Reuse · Studios in Pune & Belagavi; Heritage projects pan-India ## Book To book Mathew and Ghosh, message mytribe on WhatsApp: [Chat on WhatsApp](https://wa.me/916360004054?text=Hi%2C%20I%20saw%20your%20work%20on%20the%20Museum%20of%20Art%20%26%20Photography%20(MAP)%20on%20mytribe%20and%20would%20love%20to%20discuss%20an%20upcoming%20architectural%20project.%20Are%20you%20available%20for%20a%20consultation%3F)