In future, a new structure will ‘float’ above the existing building, supported by eight pillars and thus not taking up any additional space. The clear geometry mirrors the existing form, framing it and giving it a new urban presence. The existing entrance area in the north will be retained and will lead visitors to the ground floor, which will be used as a foyer and for temporary exhibitions.

The first floor will feature a closed exhibition circuit with curated views of Lake Monbag and the planned sculpture garden. The central courtyard will be continued vertically, creating new visual connections between the floors. The second floor will feature open, light-flooded rooms for office and art work – with a direct view of the pyramid from the courtyard terrace. The new façades take up the theme of metal and reflection – a central motif in the works of Heinz Mack.

The design was created by Ruth Martin and Malte Grobenstieg, who won the student competition organised by the Kulturkreis der Deutschen Wirtschaft (German Business Culture Circle) in collaboration with the city of Monheim am Rhein in 2022/2023. They then further developed their winning design as part of the asp planning team.