The Aga Khan museum, located in suburban North York, was built in 2014 at a cost of over $300 million.  

 

The 10,000 square metre building was designed by Japanese architect Fumihiko Maki, and constructed in a park beside The Ismaili Centre (designed by Indian modernist Charles Correa). The museum is dedicated to the acquisition, preservation and display of artefacts relating to the many different traditions of Muslim communities.

 

 

Interestingly, the museum was originally supposed to be built in London on a site opposite the Houses of Parliament. However, amidst some controversy, this did happen and construction moved to the curious current location in North York.

The collection, while not large, boasts some of the best pieces from the Muslim world ranging from ancient texts, textiles and tiles to paintings, miniatures and even musical instruments

The design of the building is quite unique, and along with the reflecting pools and glass domes creates a setting which seems somewhat out of place in the middle of suburban business parks and next to a major highway.

Interestingly, when ground was broken for the museum, the ceremony was presided over by the Aga Khan himself (who has a reported personal fortune of 8 billion dollars) and the Prime Minister of Canada at the time, Stephen Harper.

 

I’d love to see any shots you have of the museum – and I’d also appreciate hearing what you liked about about this post! Until then, one more shot!

 

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Aga Khan Architecture Art Artefact Black and White Blog Canada Colour Splash Contemporary Design Digital Photography Fumihiko Maki Isamili Centre Jon Chodarcewicz Jonathon C Photography Jonathon Chodarcewicz London Museum Muslim Community North York Photography Prime Minister Reflecting Pool Stephen Harper Toronto