Master Design Studio: KARLSRUHE.ART.COURT. – Expansion of the Staatliche Kunsthalle Karlsruhe
The Staatliche Kunsthalle Karlsruhe, opened in 1846 as one of Germany’s first public museums, is one of the most important art museums in the state. In order to present its collections in a contemporary manner and better fulfil its educational mission, the museum needs modern premises. A competition was therefore launched in 2017, from which Staab Architekten emerged as the winner in 2018. In addition to the renovation and restructuring of the historic main building, which will be implemented from mid-2024, ideas for an extension of equal value on the neighbouring district court site and an underground passage connecting the buildings were also presented.
As part of the design studio, this functionally and programmatically necessary extension is to be developed in line with circular construction principles, while preserving the existing building. The ‘Kunsthalle der Gegenwart’ will house collections from the 20th and 21st centuries, special exhibitions, offices for art history and communication, a copperplate engraving cabinet and rooms for paper restoration. The former courthouse, built in 1962, will also be opened to the urban community and will house a restaurant and an art library. The extension represents the transformation of the museum into an open, inviting art campus for social exchange and cultural participation in Karlsruhe.
Support: Elena Boerman
Wednesdays and Thursdays in Studio
First Meeting: 30.10.2025, 10.00 AM (Bldg. 20.40, R tbd)
Important Dates: 18.11.2025, 09.12.2025, 15.01.2026
Excursion: 15.-16.11.2025, Museological Tour
Submission: 24.02.2026
Presentation: 26.02.2026
Form: Teamwork
Focus of study: Architectural and Cultural Heritage
