URSINAE star roof in Ostermundigen

The 120 square meter glass roof URSINAE is a work of art at the foot of the “BäreTower”, the highest residential tower in Switzerland, in Ostermundigen/BE. Like the tower, the work of art represents a connection between heaven and earth. The star shape of the roof and the flowing color tones were inspired by the three constellations of the big bear (Ursa Major), the little bear (Ursa Minor) and the bear keeper (also called Bouvier – the artist’s family name). Bouvier Ausländer depicted this constellation in the structure of the roof at the time of the opening on July 1, 2022. Bern Minster, which can be seen from the roof of the BäreTower, is half a meter higher than the BäreTower. URSINAE makes reference to the cross vault and the stained glass windows in the cathedral. The stars are intended to symbolize eternity, space and hope. When the sun shines, the colored glass fields reflect onto the natural stone floor of the square and lend the work a playful component. As the sun moves through the day, the colored shadows of the roof move across the square. The two-dimensional roof thus becomes a three-dimensional color space that you can enter and immerse yourself in a “color frenzy”. In every season, day and night, different color perceptions emerge and depict time like a sundial. An iconic work, predestined for Instagram moments. The work is an art commitment by Helvetia and Halter. You can find more information on the artist’s website.