Neubau Extension

Overview

The Neubau Extension, or 'New Building,' of the Kunstmuseum Basel is a significant architectural addition to one of Switzerland's most important art institutions. Opened in April 2016, this striking structure is not merely an annex but an integral part of the museum's expanded presence in Basel. It stands directly across Dufourstrasse from the historic main building, creating a dialogue between past and present architecture, and is seamlessly connected to it via an underground passage. The Neubau was designed to provide much-needed space for modern and contemporary art, specifically housing works created after 1950, and to accommodate large-scale temporary exhibitions. Its distinctive appearance and thoughtful integration into the urban landscape make it a compelling destination for art enthusiasts and curious travelers alike.

History & Cultural Background

The Kunstmuseum Basel boasts the oldest public art collection in the world, with its origins tracing back to the Amerbach Cabinet acquired by the city in 1661. This rich history laid the foundation for its reputation as Switzerland's leading art museum. By the early 21st century, the growing collection and the demand for more suitable exhibition spaces for contemporary works necessitated an expansion. An architectural competition was held in 2008, leading to the selection of local architects Emanuel Christ and Christoph Gantenbein. Their vision for the Neubau was to create a building that would stand on its own while also complementing the 1936 main building. The project, which cost 100 million Swiss francs, was a testament to public-private partnership, with 50 million francs contributed by the private Laurenz-Stiftung and the remainder by public funds. This collaborative effort underscores Basel's enduring commitment to its cultural heritage and contemporary artistic expression.

What Makes It Special

The Neubau Extension is instantly recognizable by its unique architectural style. Designed by Christ & Gantenbein, it features a sharply angled, monolithic form clad in dark grey brick with a distinctive LED frieze. This 'stitched' brickwork, with its fine variations in tone and texture, gives the building a robust yet refined presence, echoing the materiality of Basel's historic structures while asserting a modern identity. Inside, the design prioritizes the art. The building is characterized by a polygonal floor plan and houses two exhibition tracts on each floor, connected vertically by a monumental central staircase. This staircase, illuminated from above by a large round skylight, creates a dramatic spatial experience. The exhibition rooms themselves vary in scale, offering both intimate settings and expansive hall formats, providing versatility for displaying diverse artworks. Beyond aesthetics, the Neubau incorporates advanced climate engineering to ensure optimal conditions for the delicate artworks, maintaining strict temperature and humidity levels with minimal dust exposure.

Stories, Fun Facts & Local Details

One of the more intriguing aspects of the Neubau is its conceptual relationship with the main building. The architects aimed for the two structures to form a 'pair' in the urban space, with matching rooflines and complementary designs. The entrance of the Neubau, for instance, faces the arcades of the old building, establishing a direct visual connection. The underground passage linking the two buildings is more than just a functional corridor; it symbolizes a continuous journey through art history, allowing visitors to seamlessly transition between different eras of the collection. Furthermore, the use of contrasting materials in the foyer—marble flooring combined with hot-dip galvanized steel wall cladding—creates an aesthetic unity that is both different and harmonious, reflecting the building's role as a bridge between the old and the new. The Neubau primarily displays works from 1950 onwards, complementing the main building's focus on art from the 15th century to 1950, and the Kunstmuseum Basel | Gegenwart which focuses on art from 1990 to today.

Visitor Perspective

Stepping into the Neubau is an experience of contemporary elegance and artistic immersion. The carefully curated exhibition spaces, with their varying sizes and excellent lighting, allow visitors to engage deeply with the post-1950 and contemporary art on display. The seamless flow between the Neubau and the main building through the underground passage means travelers can explore the Kunstmuseum's vast collection cohesively. The clarity of the architectural design ensures that the focus remains firmly on the artworks, while the building itself provides a serene and inspiring backdrop. For those seeking to understand the evolution of modern art within a thoughtfully designed environment, the Neubau Extension offers an enriching journey through some of the most significant artistic movements of recent history. Visitors will appreciate the sense of spaciousness and the quiet contemplative atmosphere, perfect for appreciating the nuanced details of each piece. The museum's dedication to preserving its collection is also evident in the precise climate control, ensuring the artworks are enjoyed for generations to come.