The Musée Atelier Audemars Piguet designed by BIG - Bjarke Ingels Group unifies the original workshop established by Audemars Piguet’s founders with a new all-glass structure, made up of two spirals, that seamlessly integrates into the existing landscape. The spiral-shaped gallery, reminiscent of the spring of a timepiece and entirely supported by its own curved glass walls which flanks the original workshop where the Audemars Piguet story began in 1875, and where a previous museum was housed from 1992 to 2019. The museum’s collection, which will showcase up to 300 timepieces at any one time, is displayed alongside two in-situ workshops to create a living museum. With its forward-thinking design that marries tradition and innovation, the Musée Atelier Audemars Piguet offers visitors a unique opportunity to delve into the history of the brand and watchmaking in the Vallée de Joux. The museum was executed by a host of experts and artisans including CCHE, the local architecture firm and the museography, imagined by internationally renowned ATELIER BRÜCKNER, was constructed as a musical score, creating a dynamic experience for visitors who embark on a journey from the moment that they step into the space. Interludes, including automata, kinetic installations and mock-ups of intricate mechanical movements, give life and rhythm to various aspects of horological technique and design. As viewers circle the building, the rich collection of watches illuminates the storied histories of Audemars Piguet and of watchmaking in the region. The visit culminates at the centre of the spiral with the display of some of the most complicated watches manufactured by Audemars Piguet. Working within the curved glass walls of the museum, visitors can observe the watchmakers and experience the skill and mastery of Audemars Piguet first-hand.
Credits:
- BIG - Bjarke Ingels Group - Project Architect - Matthew Oravec
- BIG - Bjarke Ingels Group - Partner in Charge - Thomas Christoffersen
- BIG - Bjarke Ingels Group - Founder&Creative Director - Bjarke Ingels
- BIG - Bjarke Ingels Group - Project Designer - Otilia Pupezeanu
- BIG - Bjarke Ingels Group - Partner in Charge - Daniel Sundlin
- BIG - Bjarke Ingels Group - Project Manager - Simon Scheller
- BIG - Bjarke Ingels Group - Partner in Charge - Beat Schenk
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