Fondation Beyeler Unveils Major Expansion Designed by Peter Zumthor
The Fondation Beyeler in Riehen, Switzerland, is embarking on a significant expansion project, introducing three new structures crafted by the acclaimed Swiss architect Peter Zumthor. This ambitious endeavor also encompasses the revitalization and enlargement of its surrounding park, alongside the thoughtful repurposing of several historical buildings.
This expansion thoughtfully augments the existing museum complex, originally conceived by Renzo Piano, by incorporating fresh spaces for art displays, educational initiatives, cultural events, and public interaction. A notable aspect of the project is the opening of a previously private section of the extensive landscape to the public, fostering a deeper connection between art and nature. The newly expanded facilities are set to gradually welcome visitors, with a preview period commencing in late September 2026, leading up to its full inauguration in mid-January 2027. Zumthor's contributions include the Wyss Museum, the Ammann Pavilion, and the Erlen Torhaus, each distinct in its function, architectural form, and material composition, yet harmoniously integrated within the site's natural contours.
The Wyss Museum, spanning three stories, is the most substantial addition, offering approximately 1,500 square meters of new exhibition space. Its distinctive Y-shaped layout gracefully navigates around existing mature trees, providing captivating vistas of the Black Forest and Jura region through its expansive windows. Constructed primarily from locally sourced Jura limestone, evident in its rammed-concrete facade, terrazzo floors, and various interior finishes, the museum is poised to house works from the Fondation Beyeler's collection as well as special loans. Complementing this, the Ammann Pavilion, a single-story glass and oak structure, will serve as a dynamic public gathering spot, hosting concerts, performances, and talks. The Erlen Torhaus, featuring a timber-frame construction and stained oak facade, will provide essential facilities for artwork handling and workspaces, effectively bridging the urban environment with the adjacent nature reserve. Furthermore, the project revitalizes several historic buildings, transforming them into venues for art education, music, and experimental installations, enriching the cultural tapestry of the foundation.
This expansion underscores a commitment to integrating art with its natural and historical surroundings, creating an accessible and dynamic cultural destination. The inaugural exhibition, "Constellations," will showcase a vast collection of artworks across the new and existing spaces, evolving with the seasons to highlight the intricate relationships between artistic expression, architectural design, and the landscape's changing beauty. This holistic approach ensures that the Fondation Beyeler continues to be a vibrant center for art and culture, offering diverse experiences that inspire and engage visitors from all walks of life.