MANNHEIM.- The Kunsthalle Mannheim is gathering momentum as it enters into one of the most exciting years since its foundation in 1909. The 70 Mio. Euro New Building will open to the public at the end of 2017: spectacular architecture, a surprisingly new presentation of the collection and a line-up of compelling special exhibitions.

For more than 100 years, the Kunsthalle Mannheim has been using its outstanding collection of modern art to re-imagine, question and convey the concepts of our times. It embraces the avant-garde and is dedicated to addressing the fundamental existential questions of an urbanized society, regardless of ethnic or geographical origin. As a museum in motion, the Kunsthalle Mannheim is building its future according to the concept of a "city within the city."

The new building—designed by the international architects von Gerkan, Marg und Partner (gmp)—refers to the historical urban grid-structure of Mannheim with its distinct street blocks. The New Kunsthalle Mannheim consists of seven "exhibition houses" surrounding a central atrium. The museum’s rectangular shapes and cubic structures pay architectural homage to Mannheim’s baroque urban layout. Elements of the museum form model streets, passages, bridges, terraces and balconies. It is a microcosm within the macrocosm. The New Building is enveloped by an intricate translucent mesh-façade. The inner and outer worlds converge into one. The architecture previews the art inside, awakening the visitors’ interest and curiosity. The building opens invitingly onto its urban surroundings while also working to expand them.

From the surrounding streets and squares, glimpses can be caught of the bustling interior of the museum. Centrepiece of the New Building is the atrium, occupying an impressive 700 square metres. Daylight floods in from outside and lights up the space. The atrium is a large "square," a flexible space with no restrictions—an integral aspect of the museum as a whole. Every part of the new building has several potential uses. It is a re-interpretation of classical closed-off museum architecture, leaving the ostensibly antiquated and elitist art temple far behind.

The individual visitors are left to choose which route to take through the museum and how long to spend in each section. Those who prefer dropping by spontaneously are welcome to do so, if not to check out the latest exhibition, then at least to have a coffee, meet some friends, buy a gift, charge a smartphone or simply to enjoy the hustle and bustle of the atrium. This atrium is open, admission free and easily accessible—a central place to relax and enjoy some free time. Thus, the New Kunsthalle Mannheim is a space for everyone and a true extension of the community. It focusses on discovery and exchange—a fascinating space for encounters between people, artworks, and current discourses.

Please note the Kunsthalle Mannheim will be closed from January through to December 2017 due to construction works.