Peter Zumthor's £110m concrete gallery for Beyeler Foundation sparks debate
Peter Zumthor's new £110m gallery for the Beyeler Foundation in Basel is described as a 'worthy addition' to the world's finest art collections.
In Brief
- •Peter Zumthor's new £110m gallery for the Beyeler Foundation in Basel is described as a 'worthy addition' to the world's finest art collections.
- •The gallery, designed with handmade materials and a focus on craftsmanship, contrasts with the industrial design of the original Beyeler Foundation.
- •The extension doubles the size of the museum and includes an auditorium pavilion and office block, with 90% of the auditorium accessible without a ticket.
- •Zumthor, who was selected from a shortlist of 11 architects, aims to create a domestic feel in contrast to the original foundation's industrial design.
- •The new gallery is part of a larger expansion project that includes a five-storey office and art-handling block.
Why It Matters
Peter Zumthor's new gallery for the Beyeler Foundation represents a significant addition to Basel's cultural landscape. The project highlights the contrast between industrial and domestic design approaches in architecture, and the importance of craftsmanship in creating a meaningful addition to a world-renowned art museum. The expansion also underscores the Beyeler Foundation's commitment to accessibility and public engagement, with 90% of the auditorium pavilion open to the public without a ticket.
Key Details
- Total Cost
- £110m
- Original Foundation Opening Date
- October 1997
- Museum Visitors per Year
- 500,000
- Auditorium Pavilion Accessibility
- 90% open to public without a ticket
Context & Background
The Beyeler Foundation, opened in 1997, was designed by Renzo Piano and praised for its elegant restraint and luxurious stone skin. It houses a significant collection of modern art, including works by Monet, Miró, Matisse, and Picasso.
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