New School of Architecture

In the end, the jury was particularly impressed by the design submitted by FAKT and Gustav Düsing. “They are young colleagues who know how to continually create new combinations of expertise, which they then apply to specific construction projects,” explains architecture professor Dr. Thorsten Erl. Architect Gustav Düsing most recently won the European Architecture Prize and the German Architecture Museum (DAM) Prize. 

Sustainability plays a key role. The use of gray energy, as well as the building’s climate concept, were particularly impressive. For example, the design builds upon the foundation of the printing house and the well-preserved building structure. Distinctive elements, such as the exposed aggregate concrete slabs on the walls, will be removed and repurposed—they are intended to serve as seating or walkways in the future. The building, located in the immediate vicinity of the “Weiß,” will be designed as an open space, with room for exhibitions and workshops on the ground floor. The attic offers plenty of space for events—including those open to the public. A thin, almost membrane-like wooden ceiling spans this space. “Because we’re able to reuse so much of the existing structure, not a single scrap of material goes to waste—everything is put to use. This is more cost-effective than building from scratch,” explains University Chancellor Ulf Richter.

On the first floor, a hall for studios and offices is being created, where students, staff, and professors will work together. This is another unique aspect: “The concept is entirely new: here, the professors are guests of the students. The students are the focus, and faculty members come in to help them develop their ideas,” says Prof. Thorsten Erl. The topic of “renovation and adaptation” will also be central to the academic work at the New School of Architecture. “It was clear to us: When we launch a new building, the topics of ‘renovation and adaptation,’ resource conservation, and sustainability should play an important role and be authentically implemented by our master’s students through best-practice examples,” says Prof. Dr. Tobias Hönig.