loewer + partner supports sports complex in germany with angled piloti

loewer + partner supports sports complex in germany with angled piloti
image © ralf heidenreich
all images courtesy of loewer + partner architekten

architectural firm loewer + partner has completed a sports facility for a large educational complex in west-central germany. the region, known as schuldorf bergstraße, was founded as a school village in 1954 and comprises a range of learning institutions for those from kindergarten age through to high school. in order to provide for the area’s 2,000 students, local authorities launched a competition to build a new sports hall – a contest won by loewer + partner ahead of 20 other german firms.

the roof canopy is supported by a series of angled timber piloti
image © ralf heidenreich

the design reinterprets the notion of a school village with a large canopy enclosing the brick building below. seen as an extension of the forest, the roof is supported by a series of angled timber piloti, which subtly shield the structure’s glazed façades. an element that the competition jury were particularly impressed by: ‘the new architecture creates a connection between building ensemble and publicity. existing structures of ways, landscape and view connections were respected.’

the large playing surface is found at the lower level of the plan
image © ralf heidenreich

‘the architects are able to create a significant appearance with a high value of recognition,’ continued the selection panel. ‘the position and orientation of the building fit to the site. the structure of the trees, impressions of light and shadow and brickwork as a material are borrowed from the environment. the building avoids closed façades and opens itself to all sides.’

the large column-free volume
image © ralf heidenreich

large windows ensure a constant supply of natural light
image © ralf heidenreich

the use of green references the scheme’s rural location
image © ralf heidenreich

the complex will provide for nearly 2,000 students
image © ralf heidenreich

entrance and reception foyer
image © ralf heidenreich

image © ralf heidenreich

stairs leading to the lower storey
image © ralf heidenreich

the use of the color green is continued within the changing rooms
image © ralf heidenreich

the supports subtly shield the structure’s glazed façades
image © ralf heidenreich