Light redesign: Museum makeover is on the dot

A grid of circular skylights is visible from outside the museum, while illuminating the collection below. ‘We designed the building in such a way that it ensures all benefits the Städel ensemble had before would be maintained,’ says Michael Schumacher of architects schneider+schumacker. ‘In addition, the new rooms are spectacularly visible from the street thanks to the domed lawn and the skylights.’

Building the new extension under ground has not conflicted with a high-impact visual change to the museum’s identity. In the evenings and on overcast days, LED lights take over from the sunlight, creating a grid of luminous polka dot shapes.

This is a great example of how an institution with little space can create contrasts that highlight and reflect a host building. For more, read our Symbiotic Architecture microtrend.