The first images for the legacy project of director George Lucas – the US$300m (€220m, £179m) Lucas Museum of Narrative Art (LMNA) in Chicago – have been revealed by architectural firm MAD Architects.

To be built on prime lakefront land next to Soldier Field, the architectural concept for the LMNA “explores the relationship between nature and the urban environment”.

Inspired by the work of Frank Lloyd Wright and Mies van der Rohe, the design – perhaps fittingly – looks as though it has jumped right out of Lucas’ most famous work Star Wars.

Rising up from the land and crescendoing to a “floating” disc, the tallest points of the museum will feature an observation deck, offering views of the surrounding landscape.

The museum will house a collection that includes examples of the special effects pioneered by Lucas and memorabilia such as the original Darth Vader costume.

Beijing-based MAD has been selected as principal designer for the project, while Chicago-based Studio Gang will work on the landscape. In addition, VOA Associates, based in Chicago, will serve as the executive architect and lead the implementation of MAD’s design.

“We are bringing together some of the top architects in the world to ensure that our museum experience begins long before a visitor ever enters the building,” said Lucas speaking in July. “I am thrilled with the architectural team’s vision for the building and the surrounding green space.”

The museum plans have not been without controversy, as a number of open space advocates have vowed to file a lawsuit against Lucas over the museum, which they claim would breach regulations implemented to protect open space adjacent to Lake Michigan.