MONO architekten builds a tower of red-tinted rammed earth
CategoriesArchitecture

MONO architekten builds a tower of red-tinted rammed earth

areal am kronenrain: earth architecture in germany

 

The German town of Neuenburg am Rhein sees the completion of the ‘Areal am Kronenrain’ complex, designed by MONO Architekten. The development, including an observation tower for viewing the vast landscape, marks a transformative moment for the city, which is found in the tri-border region of France, Switzerland, and Germany. As part of the State Garden Exhibition 2022, the project aimed to reorganize urban areas, with a particular focus on the site between the city center and the redesigned green space ‘Stadtpark am Wuhrloch.’ The architecture prioritizes durable materials, and takes shape with red-tinted rammed earth and Corten steel, inspired by the region’s red sandstone and the former Rhine riverbank.

MONO architekten areal kronenrainimages © Gregor Schmidt

 

 

mono architekten takes on a complex site

 

MONO Architekten notes that the initial urban situation at the site of Areal am Kronenrain site posed challenges, characterized by limited usable space and a substantial height difference of around nine meters. In response, the architects conceived a distinctive ensemble, comprising a parking garage, public space, bridge, and tower, effectively bridging the gap and establishing a connection between the green space and the town center. The design further contributes to the city’s identity. The tower, a prominent feature of the ensemble, serves as a striking city entrance, visible from a distance. Its dynamic interaction with the adjacent parking garage and the connecting bridge structure forms a clear landmark, setting the tone for the revitalized urban space.

MONO architekten areal kronenrain
Neuenburg am Rhein’s ‘Areal am Kronenrain’ development is completed as a pivotal urban space

 

 

the observation tower over neuenburg am Rhein

 

The thirty six-meter-high tower, with its unique design and materials, stands out as a focal point. Offering an observation platform with a panoramic view, the tower becomes an essential element in connecting visitors with the picturesque landscape. Future plans for extending the bridge as a ramp to park level enhance accessibility, providing a barrier-free connection for all. The Münsterplatz, situated atop the three-story parking garage with 231 parking spaces, introduces a new public space. This plaza, which blends outward to integrates with the city plan, alleviates inner-city traffic due to its central location. Future plans for densification and mixed-use further emphasize its role as a hub for public engagement.

MONO architekten areal kronenrain
part of the State Garden Exhibition 2022, the design bridges gaps and redefines connections MONO architekten areal kronenrain
visible from afar, the tower establishes a landmark, engaging in a dialogue with the adjacent parking garageMONO architekten builds a tower of red-tinted rammed earth in germany
the urban ensemble comprises a parking garage, public space, bridge, and observation tower

Reference

MVRDV plans new green district in düsseldorf with colorful residential complex
CategoriesArchitecture

MVRDV plans new green district in düsseldorf with colorful residential complex

MVRDV and LOLA plan new green district in Düsseldorf

 

MVRDV has collaborated with landscape architects LOLA to conceptualize the Grüne Mitte project in Düsseldorf, prioritizing open communication, negotiation, and compromise in urban development. Initiated by Cube Real Estate, the project aims to introduce nearly 500 new apartments, with 50 percent allocated to social or affordable housing. Additionally, the development incorporates community spaces to enhance the overall well-being of the neighborhood. The proposed site in Flingern-Süd currently hosts an underutilized shopping center, supermarket, and car park complex built just 11 years ago. The neighboring Kiefernstraße, known for squatting since the 1980s and vibrant street art, adds a unique aspect to the community dynamics. To ensure community involvement and support, the team engaged in a participation process, collaborating to align development objectives with the diverse needs of the community. This approach has facilitated the integration of social and affordable housing and the creation of community spaces that contribute positively to the neighborhood.

MVRDV plans new green district in düsseldorf with colorful residential complex
Grüne Mitte in Düsseldorf, all images © MVRDV

 

 

A Sustainable and Community-Informed Design

 

MVRDV (see more here) and LOLA (see more here) conducted a series of workshops to involve residents in the development process. Interviews were held, and brainstorming sessions took place to gather ideas. Through this collaborative process, key requirements emerged, including the importance of retaining the supermarket as a social meeting spot, improving connectivity to neighboring city districts, and incorporating public spaces for an inclusive social environment. Designers presented three outline proposals for residents to discuss, with the Grüne Mitte design, featuring blocks around a central green space, being the most popular choice. The central park-like space within the block reduces paved or built surfaces from 98 percent to 62 percent, serving as a community hub accessible through various passages. This green area features amenities like kiosks, sports facilities, and playgrounds, contributing to increased biodiversity and a pleasant microclimate.

MVRDV plans new green district in düsseldorf with colorful residential complex
the green open space contributes to increasing the biodiversity in the neighborhood 

 

 

To economically support this large green space, a spatial compromise led to the inclusion of an office high-rise on the southwestern corner. Despite not aligning with the city’s high-rise plan, community support prompted special approval. The design team, considering community preferences, presented three proposals for the high-rise. The final 17-story design incorporates stacked blocks, with the lower one aligning with the Grüne Mitte, and the upper block twisted to complement the neighborhood’s features. Sustainability measures include green roofs, photovoltaic panels, cross-laminated timber floors, and an urban mining approach. The building’s façades celebrate diversity, with different treatments for each block, and some walls proposed for street art collaborations with Kiefernstraße residents.

MVRDV plans new green district in düsseldorf with colorful residential complex
the lower block of the 17-story building aligns with Grüne Mitte, while the upper block is twisted to complement the features of the neighborhood

MVRDV plans new green district in düsseldorf with colorful residential complex
different façade treatments for each block celebrate diversity and make the building more inviting

MVRDV plans new green district in düsseldorf with colorful residential complex
green roofs, photovoltaic panels, and cross-laminated timber floors contribute to the project’s sustainability

 

 

project info:

 

name: Grüne Mitte

architects: MVRDV | @mvrdv and LOLA@lolalandscapearchitects

location: Düsseldorf, Germany

christina petridou I designboom

jan 13, 2024



Reference