# Sun-Inspired Disc-Topped Museums SMAR Architecture Studio Designs the Science Island Museum By Amy Duong | Published 2025-05-22 | Art & Design Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/science-island-museum References: [smar-architects](http://smar-architects.com/)  Australian design firm SMAR Architecture firm has created the Science Island Museum nestled just by the Nemunas River. It overlooks the historic center of Kaunas and is defined by a [shining aluminum disc](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/the-never-hut) as it tops off the roof of the science museum. The interiors host a [permanent exhibit](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/lumisphere-experience) comprised of 140 items, including a temporary gallery space, planetarium, educational space, and more. SMAR Architecture Studio co-founder Belen Perez de Juan speaks on the design, noting "The purpose of the disc was to create a discreet landmark that [blends with the park](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/naoshima-new-museum-of-art) and at the same time was visible from the city. A new sun for Kaunas, reflecting that the sun never sets for science." Image Credit: Lukas Mykolaitis ## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter) - Score: 2.2/10 - Popularity: 12% | Activity: 12% | Freshness: 41% - Audience gender: 50% men, 50% women - Primary generations: Gen Z, Millennial, Gen X - Top markets: North America, South America, Europe, Asia, Africa ## Categories [Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Art & Design](https://www.trendhunter.com/artdesign) ## Key Themes ### Why This Trend Is Growing - **Disc-topped Architectural Designs:** These structures use unique rooftop designs to merge functionality with artistic expression in urban landscapes. - **Science-themed Cultural Spaces:** Modern museums are blending educational purposes with interactive designs to immerse visitors in scientific concepts. - **Nature-integrated Landmarks:** Architects are increasingly integrating natural elements and environmental themes into urban planning to create harmonious landmarks. ### Industries Being Reshaped - **Architecture and Urban Design:** Innovations in building design are pushing boundaries by incorporating artistic elements that also serve practical purposes. - **Museums and Cultural Institutions:** These entities are evolving into interactive spaces that prioritize public engagement through dynamic exhibits and architecture. - **Environmental Design:** A focus on sustainability and natural integration represents a shift in constructing buildings that respect and highlight their surroundings. ## Related on Trend Hunter - [Dynamic Installation Science Museums](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/hainan-science-museum.md) - [Floating Science Museums](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/the-hainan-science-museum.md) - [Textured Glass Landmarks](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/helsinki-design-and-architecture-museum.md) - [Curved Green Roof-Topped Museums](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/sunner-museum.md) - [Infinity Loop-Shaped Museums](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/yohoo-museum.md) - [Garden-Topped Sunken Museums](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/cmp-inspiration.md) - [Futuristic Cultural Spaces](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/the-lucas-museum-of-narrative-arts.md) - [Cascading Aluminum Pipe Museums](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/audeum-museum.md) - [Stars-Inspired Elliptical Planetariums](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/planetarium-design.md)