Catalyst for Development & Transformation
Innovation Center Düren (ICD)
The new building offers a multifunctional environment for innovative companies, with flexible work, learning, and meeting spaces. Transparent and open in design, it is an iconic urban statement in the new innovation district.
With the Innovation Center Düren (ICD), the city of Düren's economic and innovation network aims to create a pioneering place for economic development and social transformation. As the centerpiece of the emerging innovation quarter in close proximity to the train station, it is intended to occupy a prominent urban position and provide a multifunctional environment for startups, technology-oriented companies, enablers, university partners, and educational institutions to train the workforce of tomorrow.
Interplay of Sculpturality and Transparency
Our design, which was awarded the contract in the EU-wide VgV procedure, defines a concave spatial edge along the railway tracks; the concave building shape creates a sculptural effect. Visibly, the building forms a portal on its north side at the station square. The framed glass facade extends at this point over the full height of the six stories. From here, the building dynamically unfolds along the railway tracks.
From a distance, the delicate louvers create a timeless facade image; as one approaches, the facade opens up, offering insights into the activities inside. Upon entering, visitors are greeted by the three-story lobby, which serves not only for vertical circulation but also provides space for diverse uses as a central meeting point. The defining architectural element of the lobby is the spacious seating staircase, visually extending the urban space into the building interior.
Our concept supports the vision of the Innovation Center Düren through an identity-forming and unmistakable appearance, emphasizing its effect as a driver of innovation in the local economy. The building becomes an active source of inspiration for creative processes – a place that brings people together, stimulates dialogue, and provides space for development.
Matthias Koch
Architect, Managing Director in Frankfurt
Open, Communication-Promoting Structures
The multifunctional rooms with open floor plan structures are designed for an efficient work environment and promote creativity, communication, and collaborative work. The focus is on user comfort, with measures for sound insulation, natural light optimization, an optimal room climate, and a high level of coziness.
The open floor plan structure in the upper floors supports different work modes – from informal exchange to focused individual work. Modular room concepts allow for easy adaptation to changing team sizes and project requirements.
Sustainability
Our sustainability concept covers all dimensions of the building – from construction and materials to technical equipment and aspects of social sustainability to meet the demands of a healthy New Work work environment. The Innovation Center Düren is intended to exemplify the possibilities of circular construction by incorporating material disassembly and reusability into the architectural design. Furthermore, extensive greening of facades and roofs, PV modules for self-generated electricity, and the use of rainwater are planned.
