Introduction p. 2Historical context of the Ulster Museum p. 2Context p. 4Description of spaces p. 5The potential step forward p. 5Conclusion p. 6Bibliography p. 7Books p. 7Newspapers p. 7Internet p. 7IntroductionThis museum has thus far experienced a transition at pivotal moments in its historical timeline. This, however, raises the question of whether this constitutes an architectural treasure of Northern Ireland or whether it is a reaction to turbulent periods in Belfast's history. As part of this review, it is hoped to be able to demonstrate that this museum has evolved from a prestigious neoclassical style building standing alone at the southern edge of the botanical garden to an encompassing contextual architectural element that attempts to correlate with its surroundings. It is this public embrace, but with recent redevelopment, that has taken on the true architectural significance and integrity of Wynnes' neoclassical block that fits with Pym's brutalist modern style. The new glazing addition to the gallery and cafe spaces designed by Hamilton Architects has spoiled the atmosphere. The beauty of this integration is slowly fading from its concrete block. The Ulster Museum is considered one of the best examples of the fusion of two styles into a single architectural expression. The Ulster Museum finds itself at another pivotal moment where it must make the decision to place capital gains on the true architectural integrity of the brutalist forms associated with the neoclassical style. Historical Background of the Ulster Museum The Early Ages The Ulster Museum was originally founded as the Belfast Natural History Society. ...... middle of article ......P, “The Ulster Museum: An Appreciation”, Perspective, Vol. 16, number no. 4, July/August 2007, p. 30Ancell, H., “Final bid to halt Ulster Museum extension plan”, Building Design, Issue no. 1784, August 2007, p. 6Dorrell, E., “Renovation row at the Modern Museum”, Architects Journal, Vol. 225, number no. February 6, 2007, p. 14McGarry, M., “Ulster Museum 2009, Perspective, Volume 19, Number 1, January/February 2010, p. 30-35InternetUlster Museum, http://wikipedia.org, site visited on April 25 at 10:04 a.m. http://archiseek.com/2007/francis-pym-ulster-museum-belfast/http://www.hamiltonarchitects.co.uk /news/19-2010/70-ulster-museum-wins-art-fund-prizehttp://www.fobbg.co.uk/history2.htmlhttp://www.fobbg.co.uk/palmhouse.htmlhttp:/ /darkwing.uoregon.edu/, "The Crystal Palace of Hyde Park". Accessed April 26, 2014. http://www.belfastcity.gov.uk/community/cemeteries/friarsbush.aspx