At the cinema: Wim Wenders explores Peter Zumthor’s spaces
3 min read
The idea behind it is simple and, at the same time, quite fundamental. What do ‘houses’ – and, above all, ‘home’ – mean to us? And how does an abstract ‘space’ become a place where one feels at ease or moved? The film does not seek answers in theory. It shows the buildings from the viewpoint of visitors, residents and tradespeople – in other words, from the perspectives through which architecture actually makes an impact.
The film was shot using state-of-the-art 3D technology. This makes the buildings appear as though one could move around inside them. Among the buildings featured is the Kunsthaus Bregenz. It is here, in particular, that it becomes clear that Zumthor’s architecture is not best understood through individual views, but through pathways, light, transitions and materials.
Zumthor works with materials, craftsmanship and atmosphere, and has a very keen sense of each specific site. The film shows that he approaches his projects in much the same way as painters, writers, composers or filmmakers approach their work: it takes shape as it is created and is driven forward through the process. It is no different in construction. Architecture is therefore far more than simply the construction of buildings.
For anyone who makes daily decisions about floor plans, materials and details, this is a fascinating idea. Every decision ultimately influences how people perceive a space and live their lives within it. The film brings this connection to life and encourages viewers to take it more seriously in their own designs.
The world premiere took place at the 2026 Venice International Film Festival. The film is scheduled for release on 26 November 2026. At the end, Peter Zumthor sums it up: “We all come from houses.”
What: FROM INSIDE OUT – THE ARCHITECTURE OF PETER ZUMTHOR
When: Cinema release 26 November 2026
All images: © Screenshot from the film trailer
