The new “Horner Aufschwung” neighbourhood centre is designed as a transparent and airy barn with generous glazing and a surrounding arcade. It is a key project in the development of the Horner Geest urban area and brings together the services of four different organisations under one roof. In future, it will form a social anchor point for young people, children and families and be an example of sustainability in terms of utilisation and construction.
The elongated structure is positioned in such a way as to minimise the impact on the site and largely preserve the surrounding tree landscape. The horizontal wooden slats in the gable area are reminiscent of the barn typology and at the same time a reference to the ecological design concept. The supporting structure is formed by a prefabricated timber skeleton, which can be seen from the outside through the windows that are directly connected to the width of the columns. The roof surfaces are fitted with PV elements and green areas and contribute to the building’s energy efficiency. The surrounding filigree pergola is designed as an outdoor space that can be used all year round. An alternation between closed areas and bay windows structures the façade and creates a link between the interior and exterior spaces.
A clear floor plan symmetry makes it easy for users and visitors to find their way around the two full storeys. The left-hand part of the building facing the playground is mainly used by the parents’ school and the playhouse, while the right-hand part is used by the youth centre and, on the upper floor, by street social work. The near-natural playground with a large flower meadow and beautiful trees as well as the outbuildings (workshop, storage areas) are designed to be close to nature and, together with the new neighbourhood centre, form an important place for social activities, leisure and exercise on the Horner Geest.
| Location | Hamburg, Germany |
| Competition | 1st prize 2022 |