Exterior View | © Barozzi Veiga
The new building for the Natural History Museum of Basel and the State Archives of Basel-Stadt wants to become a new urban landmark. Estudio Barozzi Veiga entry for the International competition awarded with the Fifth Prize.
Natural History Museum Technical Information
- Architects: Estudio Barozzi Veiga
- Location: Basel, Switzerland
- Architect in Charge: Fabrizio Barozzi, Alberto Veiga
- Project Year: 2015
- Images: © Barozzi Veiga
Natural History Museum Photographs
Text by the Architects
EM2N won the First Prize in the international competition to design the new Museum of Natural History Basel and the State Archives Basel-City. Selected over 22 other proposals, the winning scheme “Zasamane” will unite both institutions within a single “storehouse” that will “combine knowledge about nature and culture” of the Swiss city.
The elongated building will take shape with a subtle stagger that responds to the neighboring railway line and increases in density as it approaches Vogesenplatz. A slender tower will anchor the building, offering an “urban symbol” for both institutions. The proposal of Estudio Barozzi Veiga was awarded the Fifth Prize.
Located within the Volta district, the new building for the Natural History Museum of Basel and the State Archives of Basel-Stadt is a unique urban landmark. It represents the opportunity to convert a cultural building into a meeting place.
Three clear geometric structures identify the new building in the neighborhood and allow it to integrate into its immediate urban environment naturally: a longitudinal element exploits the maximum permitted height of 18m, redefining the limits of the path, creating a small public space in front of the museum; a vertical structure, with a total height of 40m, is perceived as a new monument within the city; and a vast entrance hall renews Vogesenplatz, the existing square in front of the building.
Natural History Museum Plans
About Barozzi Veiga
Barozzi Veiga was founded in Barcelona by Fabrizio Barozzi and Alberto Veiga in 2004. The practice has since worked internationally in public and private projects, and its work has received several prestigious distinctions. Its body of work includes cultural, educational, and residential buildings as well as civic projects.
Other works from Barozzi Veiga
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