Peter Zumthor's £110m Rammed Concrete Gallery in Basel 2026

Peter Zumthor's £110m rammed concrete gallery in Basel is a testament to Swiss craftsmanship and architectural innovation. In the early 1960s, as a teenage apprentice in his father's cabinet-making workshop, Zumthor designed his first cupboard, recalling the satisfaction of fitting the door so perfectly that it closed "with a special sucking sound." His father instilled in him "the Basel pride in the well-built object." Six decades later, the 83-year-old Swiss architect is back in Basel, beaming with the same local pride as he gazes at his latest well-built object—a monolithic new gallery that looks chiselled from the earth.

Swiss Craftsmanship Meets Modern Architecture

The gallery, a £110m addition to the Beyeler Foundation, features layers of pale crumbly concrete hammered into shape, with big oak and bronze doors whose handles are wrapped with leather cord. These doors close with that same satisfyingly expensive Swiss swoosh. "It was an old feeling," Zumthor tells me, describing working in his home town. "I encountered craftspeople who remembered my father, who had this special knowledge of how to make things. They weren't surprised if something had to be custom-made." This project marks a significant shift from his previous building site—the tortuous, two-decade-long, $724m addition to the Los Angeles County Museum of Art.

Rammed Concrete: A Material of Distinction

Rammed concrete, the primary material used in the gallery, is created by compacting layers of concrete into formwork, resulting in a textured, stratified appearance. This technique not only provides structural integrity but also imbues the building with a raw, earthy aesthetic that contrasts with the sleek, polished look of many modern galleries. Zumthor's choice of rammed concrete reflects his philosophy of creating buildings that feel rooted in their environment and history.

Design Philosophy and Local Pride

Zumthor's design philosophy emphasizes the importance of place, material, and craftsmanship. He believes that buildings should resonate with their surroundings and evoke a sense of belonging. The Basel gallery exemplifies this approach, as it not only respects the local architectural context but also celebrates the skills of Basel's craftspeople. Zumthor's return to his hometown after decades of global projects underscores his deep connection to Basel and its traditions.

• Material authenticity: Rammed concrete gives the gallery a unique, tactile quality.
• Local craftsmanship: Custom-made elements honor Basel's artisanal heritage.
• Design integrity: The building harmonizes with its environment and purpose.
• Personal legacy: Zumthor's first Basel project reflects his lifelong dedication to well-built objects.

Impact on the Art World and Beyond

The new gallery is poised to become a cultural landmark, attracting art enthusiasts and architecture aficionados alike. Its opening coincides with a growing interest in sustainable and locally sourced materials, making Zumthor's use of rammed concrete particularly timely. The gallery not only provides a space for art but also serves as a testament to the enduring value of craftsmanship in an increasingly digital and mass-produced world.

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