University of Wuppertal, New Main Building, Wuppertal, DE
Honorable mention, anonymous, limited competition
The University of Wuppertal (BUW) organized an anonymous, limited competition for a new teaching, research, and seminar building. It required a multistory, efficiently-planned building that enriches the campus and combines with the new landscape design to create a communicative place for students and visitors. The design by ATP Frankfurt received an honorable mention.
New link
The building is notable for its optimal positioning on the university campus. It adopts the spatial limits defined by the surrounding buildings while also creating a well-proportioned open space. As a link between the park for students and the banks of the Wupper, the building becomes the new centerpiece of the campus.
Spatial program
The interior of the building is primarily characterized by its openness and transparency. Behind the glass entrance one finds a generous communication zone with a flexibly usable exhibition area. From here, one directly reaches a lecture theater for around 180 people, light-filled seminar spaces, and a workshop. The stairs are positioned on the façade as a visible axis of communication. The library is located on the upper floor – far from the hustle and bustle of the university. With its terrace and large areas of glazing, the reading zone offers attractive views out onto nature.
A green campus
The open space opens towards the river. Accessible lawns alternate with areas of paving while rows of trees mark the pedestrian path down to the Wupper. In contrast, “loosely” positioned trees accentuate the heart of the campus. Benches, seating terraces with views across the water, and timber platforms offer many options for resting awhile.
In its planting scheme, the design team paid close attention to retaining the existing trees. Several large trees were also added to enhance the open spaces. These are generally species that are tolerant to climate change such as black walnuts, honey locust, and flowering ash.
Organizers: Bau- und Liegenschaftsbetrieb NRW Niederlassung Düsseldorf
Competition: 2021
