Aga Khan Museum

Fumihiko Maki · Toronto · 2014

Aga Khan Museum
Iconic

A luminous geyser that pulses with the digital heartbeat of Barcelona.

Museum dedicated to Islamic history, artifacts and art pieces in Toronto, Canada.

Visitor Guide

→
Visitor Tip

Visit on New Year's Eve to see the building’s spectacular 'diffraction' lighting show, a local tradition since 2006.

◎
Best Photo Spot

Plaça de les Glòries Catalanes at sunset to see the color transition from earth tones to cool sky-blues on the facade.

⊞
Access & Hours

Now open as an observation deck (Mirador Torre Glòries); adult tickets are approximately €15.

✦
Insider Note

The tower is not circular; it is an ellipse designed to follow the 'entasis' of a classical column while mirroring Montserrat mountain.

⏱
Time Needed

1-2 hours

Design & Structure

FractalParametric SurfaceShell Structure
⚙
Computational Process

Nouvel rejected the 'North American' skyscraper model, using computer-controlled pixels to create a 'vaporous cloud' of light.

◆
Materiality

Concrete covered with modules of lacquered aluminum and tinted glass louvers in earth, blue, and grey tones.

△
Structural Innovation

The building uses a self-climbing formwork system to construct two concentric oval concrete cylinders that do not touch.

See Together

Buildings that pair well with Aga Khan Museum — they're nearby or share a compelling architectural conversation.

More by Fumihiko Maki

View all →

Nearby in Toronto

Frequently Asked Questions

Who designed Aga Khan Museum?+

Aga Khan Museum was designed by Fumihiko Maki and completed in 2014. It is located in Toronto, Canada.

Where is Aga Khan Museum located?+

Aga Khan Museum is located in Toronto, Canada. Its coordinates are 43.7253°, -79.3320°.

When was Aga Khan Museum built?+

Aga Khan Museum was completed in 2014. It was designed by Fumihiko Maki.

Can I visit Aga Khan Museum?+

Aga Khan Museum is a real building in Toronto that can be viewed from the outside. Check local information for interior access and visiting hours. Use the Parametric Atlas walking tour feature to plan a route that includes this building.