holzer kobler inserts large cubes within timber framework for communal space in germany

A Sustainable Multi-functional communal hub in St. Peter-Ording

The Erlebnis-Hus in St. Peter-Ording, Germany, serves as a multi-functional gathering space welcoming people of various ages and backgrounds. Embracing the motto of ‘play within, on, next to, under, and around the house,’ this architectural project by Holzer Kobler Architekturen and landscape architects Uniola integrates sustainability into the extended beach promenade. The architects drew inspiration from the traditional local pile construction methods while infusing it with a fresh perspective. The building features an exposed load-bearing structure crafted from laminated timber, while inside this framework, five large solid wood cubes are strategically positioned at different heights and locations. Each cube is dedicated to a specific function, hosting an analog playground, an information center, a store, a restaurant, an office, and sanitary facilities.

all images ©Jan Bitter

A GATHERING SPACE FOR PLAY AND INTERACTION

Each cube is enclosed by wooden facades on three sides, featuring expansive windows on one face that offer wide views of the surrounding landscape. The architectural design incorporates terraces and staircases, facilitating access across multiple outdoor levels. A reinforced concrete core, housing an elevator and infrastructure rooms, ensures the building’s structural stability. Within the structure, the integration of playgrounds —featuring elements such as long spiral slides, trampolines, and skate parks— actively encourages visitor engagement and playful interaction. In a commitment to sustainability, the team at Holzer Kobler Architekturen prioritized the use of renewable and locally sourced materials wherever feasible. With 480m³ of Siberian Larch and 2,500m² of laminated veneer lumber (equivalent to 300m³), the construction has resulted in saving an impressive 780 tons of CO2 emissions.

the construction is inspired by the local pile construction methods

it consists of an exposed load-bearing structure made of laminated timber

the integrated playgrounds within the sculpture invite and encourage visitors to interact and engage in play

five oversized solid wood cubes are inserted at various heights and positions

the individual cubes are open on one side with oversized windows, providing impressive views of the surrounding landscape

terraces and stairs make the building accessible on multiple levels outdoors

a reinforced concrete core with an elevator and infrastructure rooms stabilize the structure

this openly exposed wooden structure reinterprets traditional local pile construction for a modern era

the aim was to create an inclusive space ensuring that the Erlebnis-Hus offers space and activities for all interests

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project info:

name: Erlebnis-Hus St. Peter-Ording
designer: Holzer Kobler Architekturen

client: Tourismus-Zentrale St. Peter- Ording

construction management ASSMANN BERATEN + PLANEN GmbH

landscape architecture: Uniola AG Landschaftsarchitektur Stadtplanung

lighting design: Lichtvision

structural engineering: ifb frohloff staffa kühl ecker Beratende Ingenieure

fire protection: brandschutz plus GmbH

technical building systems: Ingenieurbüro Pahl und Jacobsen Technische Gebäudeausrüstung 

height: 21.40 meters

gross floor area (BGF): 2,950 sqm

usable area: 2,610 sqm

building plot area: 1,145,563 sqm

building footprint: 215 sqm

building floor area: 1,158.1 sqm

surface sealing: 3,804 sqm

construction costs (gross): €12.6 million

energy standard: EnEV 2016 (German Energy Saving Ordinance)

energy source: District Heating

sustainability/ecology: Preference for local and resource-efficient building materials

timber: 480m³ Siberian Larch, 2,500 sqm laminated veneer lumber, equivalent to 300m³, total savings of 780 tons of CO2

length slide: 47,2 m

photography: ©Jan Bitter