Arkitekturmuseet

A matter of Art: Contemporary Architecture in Switzerland

School in Paspels

Many interesting buildings of great architectural quality have been produced in Switzerland the last years. The exhibition "A matter of Art: Contemporary Architecture in Switzerland" shows works by Peter Märkli, Annette Gigon & Mike Guyer as well as by Herzog & de Meuron and Peter Zumthor. Photo: Archive Valerio Olgiati.


The goal is not to provide a documentary account as such, but rather to offer subjective interpretation of cutting-edge contemporary architecture.

Contemporary Swiss architecture interests us because it embraces the notion of architecture as an art form. That is, while the selected buildings are rooted in legible functional and contextual givens, they are also designed so that the architecture can be appreciated for itself.



Sixteen buildings, constructed between 1997 and 2000, are exhibited in the form of photographs and plans, with clear explanations. Some works are also exhibited in model form.


The exhibition is a vehicle for highlighting the new realms of awareness that architecture can offer.

Migros shop, Luzern, 1995-2000. Diener & Diener. Photo: Gaston Wicky.


A number of themes are presented in parallel with the projects (materials, new simplicity, wood and architecture/nature), together with a close-up of key players in the contemorary arena of Swiss architecture.
Hospital Pharmacy, Basel, 1995-1998.
Herzog & de Meuron. Photo: Margherita Spiluttini.


Exhibition period


August 26th - September 26th.


Sensual Density

Christian Sumi, Burkhalter Sumi Architects, Zurich, will hold a lecture at 6 pm on September 14th at the museum. Welcome!