Herzog & de Meuron to Design Berggruen Institute Campus in Los Angeles

Herzog & de Meuron have been commissioned by the Berggruen Institute to design its new campus on a 447-hectare site in the Santa Monica Mountains overlooking Los Angeles. The project, conceived as a self-sufficient oasis, will include three main structures: the institute building, the Scholar Village with residences hidden in the landscape, and a residential complex for staff with libraries and restaurants. Over 90% of the site will remain open space through a system of courtyards, gardens, and green areas. The design emphasizes minimal environmental impact with low-energy lighting, electric vehicles, permeable paving, and a water system based on collection, conservation, cleaning, and reuse. The institute's work focuses on economic, political, and ecological imbalances. The campus is inspired by the archetype of a monastery, combining study and research with direct contact with nature. The project is pending review by the Los Angeles Department of City Planning, with construction possibly completed within five years.