The Schaulager building, a unique architectural landmark located on the outskirts of Basel, was created by the architectural office of Herzog & de Meuron for the Laurenz Foundation.
The building embodies the Schaulager concept, which combines storage and exhibition space, making it an innovative prototype. Its polygonal exterior is a response to the shape of the site and has a closed, protective appearance. The clay-colored surface, which was achieved by manually treating the soft concrete, recalls processes of sedimentation and emphasizes Schaulager's role as a place for art preservation and new visions. The walls, with a thickness of over 50 cm, not only symbolize stability but also serve a practical purpose, maintaining a constant temperature of 20°C and 50% humidity.
The organic forms of the façade are reflected in various elements inside the building, such as the window apertures, metal fittings, and banisters. The entrance hall is characterized by a long window that allows daylight into the exhibition area, while the roofed forecourt is inviting thanks to two LED screens showing images of the building and its exhibitions. The building's smooth white façade and crystalline gatehouse on the east side add a modern touch.
Since 2015, Schaulager has been generating electricity with its 360 kW photovoltaic power plant on the roof. The art collection of the Emanuel Hoffmann Foundation has been housed and administered there since 2003, in modular rooms that can be adapted for varying space requirements. The traditional storage vault has been replaced with an idea of the storeroom as an autonomous facility suitable for presenting art, distinct from a museum or gallery.
Schaulager is located in the new cultural district outside of Basel, near workshops, studios, service businesses, and exhibition spaces, as well as the Academy of Art and Design. The building serves as a symbol of Basel's commitment to contemporary art and architecture.
