wurm+wurm covers neutrabuilding with perforated concrete shell

wurm+wurm covers neutrabuilding with perforated concrete shell
photo by robert wurm
all images © wurm+wurm architekten ingenieure GmbH

for the adaptive reuse of an empty industrial facility in jena, germany, wurm+wurm architekten has realized an enlarged structure to house three levels of office space. titled ‘neutrabuilding’, the project did away with the existing single-storey façade to make way for a predominantly glass envelope. outboard of this, a thick shell of precast concrete panels wraps the façades to provide protection from excessive thermal gain. this robust veil is patterned with hexagonal openings, which allow for views from the interior spaces while creating an expressive identity for the building.

a robust veil wraps the glass envelope to provide shading and reduced heat gain
photo by robert wurm

the building enlargement involved a thorough structural upgrade. the existing framework was supported with new columns, which extend upward two levels, while an elevator core of reinforced concrete supply additional and necessary stability. behind the perforated frontage, the facility’s glass and aluminum enclosure provides large windows to allow for luminous and contemporary office spaces.

the pattern of hexagonal openings allows for views from the interior as well as an expressive identity for the building
photo by robert wurm

the three-storey office building replaces an unused industrial facility
photo by robert wurm

the concrete shell is constructed of precast panels
photo by robert wurm

photos by robert wurm

the interiors feature large windows for views and plentiful daylight
photo by robert wurm

outdoor balconies are situated between the building envelope and outer shell
photos by robert wurm

photos by robert wurm

the three storey office facility is bordered by a vegetated lot to its west
photo by robert wurm

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project info:

location: jena, germany
completion date: 2014
built area: 1472 sqm
design: wurm+wurm architekten ingenieure GmbH
client: christoplan GmbH
photography: robert wurm