THE LICHTWIESE CAMPUS - LECTURE THEATRE AND MEDIA CENTRE - Technical University of Darmstadt

Competition 2009  -  Acquisition
In co-operation with Prof. Sill, architect


The central university area between the existing institutional buildings on the Lichtwiese campus is characterised by its lack of spatial balance and its large size.
The 'green centre' will therefore be divided functionally into two areas. A cluster of buildings will arise in the northern part with the addition of the lecture theatre and media centre east of the existing refectory. In the south a generous, landscaped space over 340 metres long and 50 metres wide under a lineal roof of tree-foliage comes into being.
This ‚green strip' integrates the existing utilisation of culture, communication, science and technology and allows for additional functions: movement, strolling around, playing games and communication are intended to afford this central area of the Lichtwiese a new university-like quality.
The connecting roof of tree-foliage is afforded a special significance with its a clear geometry. It generates a vivid display of light and shadow with its airy roof of leaves and becomes a space for movement and communication in which leisure and recuperation can take place.
Three 'clearings' are cut into the roof afforded by the tree-foliage: the information and activities pavilion in the west, the sports and games area in the centre as well as the cafe-garden of the media centre in the east. The trees will be situated on a ridge that, depending on the bordering height situations, will rise above or accordingly make an impression on the rest of the level of the square.

In order to make this new, green centre effective in an urban way, the 'open flanks' should be built on, thereby creating a later aggregation to the campus
The aim is to create a conscious counterpoint between the clustered inner area of the Lichtwiese campus and the open, landscaped space surrounding it.