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Project

University Library and Bernoullianum

- Basel, Switzerland

A new building for the Special Collections of the University Library Basel and the refurbishment of the Bernoullianum.

Courtyard with trees and seating outside a modern building with glass windows.

A courtyard area with trees and seating outside a building with large glass windows. The building has a modern design with a mix of concrete and glass elements. People are walking and sitting in the area, which features circular planters with trees and greenery.

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Story

University Library and Bernoullianum

A new architectural chapter for Basel's academic heritage The University Library and Bernoullianum project in Basel marks a significant architectural endeavor by Boltshauser Architekten. This dual project involves the creation of a new building dedicated to the Special Collections of the University Library Basel, alongside the sensitive refurbishment of the historic Bernoullianum. The design seamlessly integrates contemporary architectural elements with the historical context, enhancing both functionality and aesthetic appeal. The new structure for the Special Collections is designed to house valuable academic resources, offering state-of-the-art facilities that cater to modern research needs. The refurbishment of the Bernoullianum respects its historical significance while introducing modern amenities, ensuring its continued relevance as an academic hub.

Design Highlights

Integration of modern design with historical architecture State-of-the-art facilities for academic research Sensitive refurbishment respecting historical significance Enhanced functionality and aesthetic appeal

Key Facts

Key Aspect Detail
Architect Boltshauser Architekten
Location Basel, Switzerland
Program Library, Academic Building
Status Built

Technical summary

Updated 4/3/2026

Finishes

  • facade: The facade features a modern design with a mix of concrete and glass elements.

Materials

  • glass — Used extensively in the facade and interior walls, providing transparency and modern aesthetics.
  • concrete — Used in the building's exterior and structural elements.
  • metal — Used in the interior structures such as staircases.

Construction / Systems

  • structural: The building features a modern structural system with concrete and metal elements.

Products

  • Not specified

Palette / Lighting

  • Colors: neutral tones
  • Lighting: bright and spacious, enhanced by large glass windows and open spaces.

Images

Courtyard with trees and seating outside a modern building with glass windows.
Exterior view of two modern buildings with landscaped steps and greenery in between.
Interior view of a library featuring multi-level bookshelves, a spiral staircase, and people interacting in the space.
Interior of a library featuring a spiral staircase, glass walls, and people reading and working.
Three interior views of a modern building featuring large windows, open spaces, and seating areas.
Interior views of a library with glass walls, metal structures, and open staircases.
Architectural diagrams showing site plans, building layouts, and structural details with annotations in German.
Aerial view of a site plan with a building, roads, and surrounding greenery.
Floor plans of the University Library and Bernoullianum in Basel by Boltshauser Architekten, showing detailed architectural layouts.
Detailed architectural floor plans of a multi-level building, displaying room layouts and corridors.
Three floor plans in a row, showing detailed architectural layouts with rooms and corridors.
Architectural drawing showing a classical building with a dome next to a modern building with a grid facade.
Architectural drawing of a building elevation and section with underground levels.
Section drawings showing the interior layout and structural elements of a multi-story building.
Architectural drawings with sections and elevations of a building, featuring detailed annotations.
Section drawing of a multi-level building with detailed interior spaces and structural elements.

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