The gallery master Ernst Beyeler from Basle is without doubt amongst the most important contemporary art dealers and collectors.

As early as 1991 his foundation trust, Fondation Beyeler, entrusted the Genoese architect Renzo Piano with the task of working out a building concept for a collector's museum.

Embedded in the Berowerpark in the Basle suburb of Riehen, the new building seems to be the epitome of a dream museum since it evidently has no other purpose than to be an unobtrusive background for showing off the artworks. It is situated next to the 18th century Berower Villa, in which the restaurant and administration area are accommodated.

Acting in close collaboration with the gallery, the trust founder and the town, Renzo Piano has created an ideal building for the presentation of old and modern art.

The structure is 127m long and its elongated from is reminiscent of a ship. The museum is protected against the noise of the street's heavy traffic by a wall clad with porphyry.