In early December 2010, Norwegian firm Snohetta was chosen by the University of Guadalajara, Mexico to design their new Museum of Environmental Science. Neither party wasted any time, construction of the Museum is expected to begin within the next few months. Snohetta beat out designs from Shinguru Ban, Diller Scofidio Renfro, Smiljan Radic, and Maurico Rocha among others. Engineering firm AREP assisted Snohetta with the structural, theatre, and acoustic engineering as well as consulted on the implementation of sustainable practices.

According to the CCU website the Museum will contain a library, restaurants, a forum of demonstrations, recreational land, planetarium, classrooms, workshop, and 4 showrooms. The CCU goes on to say the Museum will focus on the natural wealth and environmental problems of the region as well as maintain exhibits on global issues and showcase the latest in green developments. Snohetta embodied scientific progression and sustainability with a modern and biotic design that draws inspiration from the natural landscape of the Guadalajara region.

The organic exterior shape and contemporary minimalist theme emulates deconstructivist aesthetics while paying homage to the environmentally themed museum. The Museum’s center is carved out to create a series of dynamic courtyard areas and gardens that open the interior spaces of the Museum to natural light and ventilation, as well as create a corridor between the University of Guadalajara’s new library and auditorium that rest on either side of the Museum. The open rooftop is an integral part of the museum’s design, allowing visitors to access the picturesque views of the University and natural landscapes surrounding Guadalajara.

The Museum will be located in the Centro Cultural Universitario(CCU), a district adjacent to the Guadalajara campus. It will be surrounded by green spaces as a part of the larger municipal planned wilderness reserves set aside by Guadalajara.