Fachhochschule Nordwestschweiz, Muttenz, 2011, Competition 2nd Prize

Three-dimensional spatial sequence

Two overground building complexes define an entrance square at a crossroad, which is framed at its corners, but remains open at its northern end, where railway tracks run past it. The 45-metre high tower is the hallmark of the university institutions, while the two low buildings with heights of 18 and 25 metres mediate with the context.


Inside, a three-dimensional and continuous public sequence of rooms unfolds between the library courtyard, the assembly-hall and lecture-theatre foyer, and the sports-hall entrance area. The six-storey atrium at the centre of the block forms the heart of the facility, creating spatial clarity and attractive meeting places.


The sculptural building is enveloped on all sides by a curtain wall. The outline on two floors and using a double load-bearing grid takes the buildings dimensions into account and achieves pleasant proportions. The bronze colour of the façades ennobles the facility and expresses institution’s public character.

Address

Hofackerstrasse 30, 4132 Muttenz

Commission

University of applied sciences

Procedure

Competition 2011, 2. Prize

Team

Lorenzo Giuliani, Christian Hönger, Julia Koch, Martin Künzler, René Schrödl