New video captures the stunning architecture of the Almaty Museum of Arts
A newly released video offers a powerful visual insight into the architecture of the Almaty Museum of Arts, a landmark cultural institution designed by Chapman Taylor that officially opened its doors in September 2025. Dedicated to contemporary art from Central Asia and beyond, the museum marks a significant new chapter for Almaty’s cultural and architectural landscape.
Situated at the foothills of the Tian Shan mountains, the 10,060 m² museum draws inspiration from the dramatic relationship between the city’s striking natural backdrop and its urban fabric. This dialogue is expressed through two interconnecting volumes clad in limestone and aluminium, unified by a dramatic, light-filled central atrium known as the Art Street. Acting as the heart of the building, this internal route provides intuitive access to a diverse sequence of gallery spaces while framing views through the building and out towards the surrounding landscape.
Conceived as both a museum and a civic destination, the Almaty Museum of Arts accommodates permanent and temporary exhibition galleries, dedicated Artist Rooms, education studios, and a flexible performance and theatre space. The Art Street extends beyond the interior to a network of terraces, plazas and landscaped public spaces, creating opportunities for outdoor installations, social gatherings and public events. More than a gallery, the museum is envisioned as a living cultural platform, a place where regional and international voices, past and present, come together through art, dialogue and education.
The museum was founded by entrepreneur and philanthropist Nurlan Smagulov, who has gifted his collection of over 700 artworks to the city. Its inaugural programme includes the first major retrospective of pioneering Kazakh artist Almagul Menlibayeva, the collection-based exhibition Qonaqtar, and a series of live performances inspired by Central Asia’s oral traditions. Visitors can also experience dedicated Artist Rooms featuring works by Richard Serra, Yayoi Kusama, Anselm Kiefer and Bill Viola, alongside newly commissioned outdoor sculptures by Yinka Shonibare, Alicja Kwade and Jaume Plensa.
Commenting on the project, Chris Lanksbury, UK Board Director at Chapman Taylor, said: “Designing the Almaty Museum of Arts has been an extraordinary opportunity to create a cultural landmark that embodies the spirit of Kazakhstan. The architecture reflects the unique meeting point of mountain and city, while providing a world-class setting for art that celebrates both regional identity and international dialogue. We are honoured to have designed the building that will inspire generations to come.”
The Almaty Museum of Arts represents a transformative moment for Kazakhstan’s cultural scene, positioning Almaty firmly on the global map as a destination for contemporary art, creativity and exchange.
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