Metamorphic Memories aims to revive the abandoned hospital by integrating elements of its history dating back to the mid 1800’s, preservation, education, and immersive experiences to create an attraction for tourists who visit the island. The significance of preserving historical landmarks like the Smallpox Hospital lies not only in honoring the past but also in educating future generations about the challenges and triumphs of our collective history. This structure has gone through a variety of phases over time since the beginning of its existence in 1856: a hospital for patients with the Smallpox disease, a nursing school, an abandoned building, and now a preserved historical landmark. Central to this design is an exterior structure inspired by an exoskeleton, an external skeletal framework or structure that provides support, protection, and shape to an organism, that would wrap around the roof and wall areas that have fallen apart over time.

The exoskeleton, enveloping the original structure, would signify a protective embrace, preserving its historical integrity while reinforcing its fragile framework with contemporary materials and technologies. Inside the building, one will find a three-tiered layout. The ground floor welcomes visitors with a reception area, cozy cafe, and charming bookshop with seating located throughout the space. The second floor consists of the left and right wings exhibiting rich historical information of the Renwick Ruins with the main vertical circulation that connects these levels in the center. Finally, the third floor has the left and right wings dedicated to contemporary art reflecting the evolution of this building over time. All materials, such as photovoltaic glass, ashcrete, and recycled steel have been taken into consideration to create an environmentally conscious design, while also keeping a careful balance between preservation and innovation to meet contemporary needs.