Museum Bezau – When Opposites Attract

Wood and glass harmonize elegantly in the newest addition to the Museum Bezau.

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The Museum in Bezau has long been recognized as a distinctive example of regional building culture. With the extension completed, the site has evolved into an architecturally sophisticated ensemble that combines the heritage structure with a modern timber-based hybrid construction. Facade materials, window geometries, and junction details were carefully selected to preserve the historic character while the new structure meets contemporary energy efficiency standards. The result is an exemplary dialogue between heritage preservation and innovative timber architecture in the Alpine region.

Pure Clarity, No Compromise

As part of the expansion of the Bezau Museum, Glas Marte played a key role by producing UNIGLAS® TOP PURE, a solution distinguished by the highest level of transparency, safety, and aesthetics. Thanks to its high white-glass content, the double-pane safety insulating glass offers exceptional color neutrality and near-complete transparency.

In contrast to conventional float glass, which often has a slight green tint, white glass provides an unobstructed and unaltered view – a quality feature that makes a decisive difference, especially in demanding architectural projects.

The manufacturing was carried out by Schwarzmann Fenster, a company renowned for precise craftsmanship and durable materials. With UNIGLAS® TOP PURE, the new museum extension not only achieves maximum light transmission but also delivers excellent thermal performance and enhanced break resistance.

Performance Data

UNIGLAS® TOP PURE – Energy-Efficient Glass combines high light transmission with outstanding energy efficiency. Thanks to its innovative coating technology, an exceptional amount of daylight enters the interior, while infrared heat radiation is effectively reflected.

As a premium triple insulating glass, it achieves an excellent Ug-value of just 0.6 W/m²K. This exceptionally low heat transfer coefficient ensures superior thermal insulation, making it ideal for energy-efficient windows in modern residential and commercial buildings.

With a g-value of 54%, UNIGLAS® TOP PURE also actively supports the use of solar heat gains – perfect for creating a warm, comfortable indoor climate, especially during the colder months. At the same time, its remarkably high light transmission of 74% provides bright, naturally lit spaces and an open, airy atmosphere.

Whether for new builds or renovations, UNIGLAS® TOP PURE energy-saving glass is the ideal choice for anyone who values sustainability and comfort.

Prize Winning Concept

The architectural concept was designed by the architectural firm Innauer-Matt and was honored with the 2024 Monument Protection Medal for its harmonious interplay between modern timber construction and the historic Baroque building. It also received the Vorarlberg Timber Construction Award in 2025 and first place in the Velux Architecture Competition.

However, the extension offers more than just a multi-award-winning architectural masterpiece. The museum – and its visitors – now benefit from additional, flexibly usable exhibition spaces arranged across three levels. By incorporating UNIGLAS® TOP PURE, the interior and exterior spaces visually merge, while the play of light and shadow creates a multi-layered spatial atmosphere. This clear, unadulterated transparency highlights both the architectural signature and the presentation of the exhibits.

With its ceremonial opening, the Museum Bezau presents itself as a successful fusion of historical substance and contemporary design. The use of white glass plays a key role in ensuring that both worlds can be experienced in perfect balance.