Kengo Kuma and Associates has unveiled plans to transform Michelin's iconic museum in Clermont-Ferrand, France. The Michelin Adventure museum, housed in a former industrial hangar, is set to undergo a significant renovation and expansion. This project aims to preserve the museum's unique sawtooth-roofed structure while adding a new timber framework to maintain its impressive 30-meter span. The studio's design philosophy emphasizes engineering and technical expression, ensuring the building's bold and intentional character. The renovation will feature a combination of exposed timber framing, hempcrete infill, and a lime-concrete finish, creating a distinctive industrial aesthetic. Inside, the museum will offer a spacious hall with a circular enclosure for central exhibitions, as well as additional spaces for a shop, events, offices, and a cafe. The eastern end will showcase a six-meter-tall sculpture of the Michelin brand's iconic Bibendum figure, surrounded by full-height glazing. This project joins Kengo Kuma's portfolio, which includes notable works such as the art library for Chanel in Shanghai and the concrete art gallery in China. The renovation promises to enhance Michelin's museum experience, blending industrial heritage with modern design.
