SPREEN ARCHITEKTEN
Ulm University of Applied Sciences
best architects 23
education buildings
Place
Ulm, Germany
Studio
Photos
Albrecht Imanuel Schnabel
Description
The university’s spare,
signet-like new building blends in harmoniously and matter-of-factly with the
natural surroundings of Ulm’s «Science City» with its magnificent
scenic views. The circulation concept with three vertical access options inside
the building ensures clear orientation and short routes. Vertical load transfer
and bracing are provided by a support structure of in-situ concrete slabs and
wall panels made of semi-precast concrete components. The high-quality, robust
exposed concrete ceiling, wall and floor surfaces contrast with oak wall
elements and expansive oak windows. Varied installation depths for the windows on
the outer façades (flush with the inner layer) versus the inner courtyards (flush
with the outer layer) lend the building a distinctive appearance. An
intelligent coupling of energy flows with the Science City’s energy grid is
part of the innovative energy concept, the application of which is in keeping
with the university’s research and teaching in subjects such as energy
technology. The building was developed to meet the Efficiency House Plus
standard and earned BNB certification in silver for sustainable construction.
The great clarity and simplicity of the building’s structure will bring lasting
value for the university and great flexibility of use, while the pared-down materials
and bright and friendly interiors create a very pleasant and open atmosphere
for research and teaching.