Distinctive building for Bern
![Rendering Siegerprojekt «Eiger», Blick vom Waisenhausplatz](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fkmbzpk.nodehive.app%2Fsites%2Fdefault%2Ffiles%2F2024-08%2F240813_KMB_ArchitekturZustaz_Website_1800x1012px6.jpg&w=3840&q=75)
The winning project from the international architectural competition presents an convinving solution for the challenging site and is the most suitable option for further processing and realisation. The winning team, Schmidlin Architekten (Zurich and Engadine), took the opportunity to design a contemporary museum building that integrates well into the UNESCO city of Bern.
![Thomas Hasler](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fkmbzpk.nodehive.app%2Fsites%2Fdefault%2Ffiles%2F2024-08%2Fthomas_hasler_5zu4.jpg&w=3840&q=75)
“The winning project stands out thanks to its urban character in the UNESCO perimeter and its modern, self-assured architectural language. The jury was won over by the distinct nature of the new building as a solitary structure that leaves the Stettler Building entirely separate, and the inclusion of the property at Hodlerstrasse 6 in the ensemble. With the creation of a square on Hodlerstrasse and the opening up of the slope of the Aare River, the project creates clear added value for the city and gives Kunstmuseum Bern an attractive, inviting address.”
Thomas Hasler, President of the Jury
What happens next
Now, the winning project will be adapted further and details will be made more specific. During further development, the façade’s potential to create a flowing structure should be exploited in order to create deeper links to the surroundings. Checks must also be made as to the extent to which remedial work is possible in the protected Stettler and Hodlerstrasse 6 buildings. When designing the outdoor space, planted areas should be included to improve the urban climate. Various needs must be coordinated with the museum’s curatorial concept with regard to the multiple use of the foyer and multifunctional room.
A jury committee will supervise the revision of the project. Further development will take place together with the city’s Office for the Preservation of Historical Monuments. The monument preservation officer is already a member of the expert jury. The final project is expected to be available by early 2028.