Integrating Shapes

Kreisverwaltung Gummersbach, Nordrhein-Westfalen

The Bergisch district building, erected in the 1970’s no longer conformed to the planning and building laws and regulations, nor did it serve the functional and technical requirements of a modern and efficient administration. With this in mind, the building was given a complete retro-fit: it was enlarged and architecturally re-designed to meet modern needs.

Because of the building’s importance in the city fabric and due to the topography of the site, a new building was designed as a circular sector, which envelops the existing high-rise. In this way, the building could be neutrally integrated into the existing structure and property. The architectural form of the main entrance forms a link to a building further along the street, which is planned for the next building stage. The formal, rounded structure forms a spacious interior that functions as an entry foyer and exhibition space.

The structural elements of the high-rise are exposed in this area and create an open gallery landscape. A circular-shaped glass roof and the several story-high glazing flood the space with daylight. To meet fire safety regulations, a second stairwell was added onto the exterior of the high-rise, which connects the parking garage with all floors in the building. The large glass surfaces of the transparent façade facing the city center reflect the surrounding buildings and the environment.