This is hard work- no, not writing these blog posts- being a woman in architecture. As I continue to search the world for inspiration- Zaha is the only really famous woman architect that I can name and this is her most impressive work. It’s finally one that I’ve been about to go into also- all previous were time or access restricted. MAXXI was a stretch goal on this trip (itinerary geared towards others) and it took some grit to get myself out the door- pushing myself to just do it; a yolo solo adventure while everyone else was jet lagged. These are the moments that matter in our character.
Like much of her other work, the exterior is typically sculpted and sweeping.
Inside, the stairs take the cake. They meander seemingly everywhere- encouraging exploration and wandering. Their construction with no rise, just concrete slats give a nod to her technological approach- bringing sweeping lines inside the building also.
Already a bit in awe of the lobby space, I meander up as the stairs invite me to and the above is what stops me in my tracks. A Carlo Scarpa reading room??? It wasn’t open, and I don’t know what the history here is- is it a relation to the museum, to the architect, to something else…. how many people does this name have a relation to? If this means something to you- please let me know and let’s connect.
Classic split view photo.
In these, you can get a decent sense of the navigation being a core element of even the gallery spaces. I did not make it to all the exhibition spaces and I still ran out of time- some of the floors were paid exhibitions- this place has expansive gallery spaces and packed with very well curated exhibitions. It was great to escape the touristy central Rome for the north and if MAXXI be your excuse to do so, let it be.
Address: Via Guido Reni, 4a, 00196 Roma RM, Italy
Website: ZHA write up
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