Te Unua Museum of Southland’s new build is currently experiencing some budget challenges. While new museums can be developed within a defined budget, blowouts are not uncommon when the allure of ‘starchitecture’ as a revitalisation ideology drives a museum project. However, Southlanders have made the decision to support a new museum and Council have actively pursued this goal aiming for the best possible outcome to support its aspirations for the future of the region.
I have seen numerous comments questioning the scope of the project from the perspective that what many, if not all, really want is the opportunity to both showcase and engage with local collections and stories. Sometimes during such projects, the purpose of the museum to serve this community need can get lost in the drive to create an architectural spectacle. There are numerous reasons why the pursuit of an iconic museum building can overshadow the actual identified need that drove its conception.
An often-cited example is the Guggenheim in Bilbao. Due to the surge in tourism that followed, the development came to be identified with an urban renewal concept known as the ‘Bilbao Effect’. The theory suggests that investing in cultural institutions and iconic architecture designed by renowned architects, or ‘starchitects,’ can revitalise economically struggling cities. This idea sparked a global fascination with iconic buildings and high-profile architects. However, the initial allure of ‘starchitecture’ is fading due to numerous issues. I will touch on a few.
High costs associated with intricate construction techniques and expensive materials have led to budget overruns and delays. Additionally, while these structures are visually impressive, they often fall short in practical functionality and maintenance can be costly. Environmental concerns also arise, as the resource-intensive nature of ‘starchitecture’ often neglects sustainability, which has become increasingly important.
Moreover, it is posited that the widespread use of ‘starchitecture’ principles has led to a standardisation of architectural styles, reducing the presence of localised, context-specific designs and diminishing the cultural and historical diversity of urban landscapes. As these problems have become more evident, there has been a noticeable shift away from spectacle -focused architecture towards designs that prioritise functionality, environmental responsibility, and local context.[1] While innovative architecture can certainly attract attention and serve as a visual landmark, the core value of a museum lies in its ability to provide enriching, educational, and engaging experiences.
The excitement surrounding the design of a new museum also often overshadows practical concerns about its long-term operational viability. Media and public interest frequently focus on the architectural novelty and high-profile design, rather than the financial strategies necessary for sustaining the museum. The true costs of running a museum—including staffing, maintenance, and programming—are sometimes underestimated, leading to insufficient planning for these ongoing expenses. Developing a comprehensive financial plan requires complex projections and long-term forecasting, which can be eclipsed by the immediate focus on the building itself. Additionally, the strong emotional and cultural investment in creating a landmark can lead to overlooking crucial financial management aspects.
To avoid becoming overly distracted by the quest for an iconic building at the expense of its core mission, museums prioritise a balanced approach that integrates architectural design with community engagement and financial sustainability. By developing a comprehensive budget that includes long-term operational costs and embracing diverse funding models, museums can ensure they have the resources needed to support ongoing programming. Engaging local stakeholders in both the design and financial planning processes will help align the building’s appeal with the museum’s purpose of showcasing and engaging with local collections and stories. Focusing on sustainability and regularly updating financial forecasts will support the museum's ability to serve its community effectively while maintaining long-term viability. This integrated approach ensures that the museum remains true to its mission while achieving both architectural and operational success.
In summary, developing a museum is a complex undertaking, and this dialogue aims not to diminish the efforts of the community or Council but to highlight the importance of balancing architectural ambitions with practical considerations to achieve the best and most financially viable outcome for Southland. Afterall the true purpose of a museum is found in its active engagement with people and communities rather than just its physical infrastructure. Museums thrive when they respond to and enrich the lives of their community members, making their mission and impact felt through active participation and connection. This is the priority.
[1] Prelikj, Kalina. From Sensationalism to Subtlety: Why Starchitecture Lost its Shine, Architizer Journal. Retrieved from From Sensationalism to Subtlety: Why Starchitecture Lost Its Shine - Architizer Journal, 1st August 2024.