Museum Reinhard Ernst – Masterful Art, Architecture, and Technology

Wiesbaden, Germany
With its impressive architecture and innovative exhibition concepts, the mre sets new standards in the art world.
Photo © Museum Reinhard Ernst, Foto: Helbig / Marburger

The Museum Reinhard Ernst (mre) is a unique project by Reinhard Ernst, an entrepreneur and art collector, to make abstract art, contemporary and modern, publicly accessible in the beautiful city of Wiesbaden with a rich historical past.
Designed by the renowned Japanese architect Fumihiko Maki, the architecture aims to respond to this dichotomy and duality of new and old, modern and traditional in a respectful manner. Granite, a traditional and robust material since ancient times, has been chosen for the exterior cladding as a contextual gesture.

On 2,500 m² of exhibition space, spread over three levels, around 60 artworks from the private collection of entrepreneur and museum founder Reinhard Ernst are presented. The works, ranging from 1950 to the present, are showcased in a unique way within the museum. The interior design is kept simple in white, while the large-format abstract artworks are particularly highlighted in the spaces. The route through the museum always leads back to the 19-metre-high light well, where the striking three-part sculpture Buscando la Luz III by sculptor Eduardo Chillida draws the eye.

A Space for Art: Acoustics and Light in Perfect Harmony
The Lindner Group played a key role in realising this project, setting new standards for museum spaces that meet both aesthetic and functional demands through their expertise and innovative solutions.
One particularly impressive feature is the acoustic and spatial concept, implemented in the highest exhibition space, the 14-metre-high "Cathedral," with a "funnel ceiling." This intricately designed daylight ceiling provides natural lighting and pleasant acoustics, enhanced by the sound-absorbing surfaces of the funnel coated with acoustic plaster. In addition to a wall heating system in the side walls, the funnel ceiling includes hanging constructions with static point loads for particularly large artworks.

Welcoming Forum and Stylish Details for Enhanced Comfort
A highlight on the ground floor is the spacious Maki Forum, a multifunctional event space that can be hired for lectures, workshops, galas, concerts, and even private celebrations. Birch wood louvres, each 2.7 metres tall, crafted by Lindner Object Design in collaboration with the in-house joinery, create a warm, inviting atmosphere and optimise acoustics.
Furthermore, the Lindner Group incorporated illuminated handrails into the drywall sections of staircases, enhancing visitor comfort and safety while adding an aesthetic touch.

Customised Spaces and Digital Experiences
Through modern technology implemented by the Lindner Group during the interior fit-out, an exceptionally precise and tailored execution was achieved. Using 3D scanning, the room structures were meticulously captured, allowing for custom-made ceiling panels and nearly seamless integration. High-quality F30 metal ceilings and stucco plaster finishes lend elegance to the rooms, showcasing the craftsmanship invested in every detail of the interior.

To make the museum visit more interactive and varied, a media guide was developed that brings the collection to life in innovative ways. Four guided audio tours, augmented reality applications, and a wealth of information about the artists and their works allow visitors to explore the exhibitions according to their individual preferences.

Custom-designed wooden slats on the walls create a warm atmosphere in the large forum.
Photo © Museum Reinhard Ernst, Foto: Helbig / Marburger
The illuminated handrail integrated into the drywall of the staircase is a striking aesthetic feature.
Photo © Museum Reinhard Ernst, Foto: Helbig / Marburger
Manufacturers
Lindner Group
Location
Wilhelmstr. 1, 65185 Wiesbaden, Germany
Year
2024
Client
Reinhard & Sonja Ernst-Stiftung
Team
Lindner SE | Ausbau Mitte.Ost, Lindner SE | Objektdesign, Lindner SE | Decke

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