The Almaty Museum of Arts, designed by the British firm Chapman Taylor, covers an impressive 10,060 square meters. It sits at the edge of the city, beautifully framing the Tian Shan mountains, which create a stunning backdrop that seamlessly connects urban life with the natural beauty of the surrounding landscape.
Nurlan Smagulov, a well-known entrepreneur and philanthropist, has established the museum, which is set to open its doors on September 12, 2025. The new museum showcases over 700 works from his personal collection, which he has generously donated to the city. The museum is poised to become a significant part of Almaty's cultural landscape, serving as a vibrant centre for both international and Central Asian art.
Chapman Taylor's contrasting designs with aluminium
The architect's architectural vision for the Almaty Museum of Arts beautifully contrasts the sturdy Jura limestone walls with sleek, aluminium-clad 'L’-shaped wings that reflect the majestic surrounding peaks. At the heart of the design lies a bright, glazed corridor, fittingly called Art Street, which serves as a radiant spine that invites natural light into the spaces while offering breathtaking views of the Tian Shan mountains.
The museum's layout flows seamlessly, moving from spacious galleries to cosy areas like a versatile auditorium, creative studios and a cafe that offers a lovely view of gardens adorned with sculptures. The architect further highlights the design's openness, making the building feel like a community space that truly belongs to both the city and the art it showcases.
