01/10/2026
New Constellations
For almost thirty years, Renzo Piano’s magnificent building set in historic Berower Park has been the defining feature of the Fondation Beyeler. Now, it has become part of a much larger constellation. Designed by Peter Zumthor, the newly expanded ensemble includes a multi-use pavilion, a service building, and a museum set in the formerly private Iselin-Weber Park. A wonderful dialogue has been created: Zumthor’s monolithic tower contrasts with Piano’s low-slung building, yellow Jura limestone with red porphyry, and large side windows with sophisticated overhead lighting. The wooded garden with a pond connects across a small public plaza to the more open, structured park next to the Piano building. The top floor of the new museum offers a panoramic view of the whole complex and the surrounding landscape of the Black Forest, reinforcing Ernst Beyeler’s vision of merging art with nature.
Ten years were spent in the planning and realisation of this 120-million-CHF extension funded by private money. Because expectations of a museum have changed since its opening in 1997, the newly expanded complex is no longer just a venue for experiencing art, but also one for connection and mediation. The goal was neither more exhibitions nor higher visitor numbers, but rather greater flexibility and openness.
The opening exhibition "Constellations," curated by Theodora Vischer and Sam Keller, extends across both museum buildings and parks, demonstrating how beautifully Renzo Piano's and Peter Zumthor's structures complement each other.
Until 14 January 2027, the new Fondation Beyeler ensemble will open in stages; timed tickets are required.
