Obersalzberg Documentation Center
Expansion of the Obersalzberg Visitor Center, competition entry. 2014
PROCESS
Open two-stage implementation competition, 2014
Organizer: Free State of Bavaria, represented by the Bavarian State Ministry of Finance, Regional Development and Home Affairs, represented by the Traunstein State Building Authority
DESIGNER
Architect: Fawad Kazi Architekt GmbH, Zurich
Landscape architect: vetschpartner Landschaftsarchitekten AG, Zurich
TEAM
Fawad Kazi Architect LLC:
Fawad Kazi, Nicole Schönfelder
DESCRIPTION
This project contribution to the Obersalzberg documentation comprises the following specific interventions.
Forest and clearing
Using the simple design elements of reforestation and clearing that have shaped the history of the site, the open spaces of the Obersalzberg Documentation Center are being sharpened and gradually developed. Clearly defined spaces place the visitor center and the Berghof grounds as clearings in a context that uses the atmospheric density of the forest as a site-specific mood carrier.
trailA paved trail follows the historic route from the visitor center through the forest to the former Berghof. Information boards placed at designated points along the trail provide information and introduce visitors to the history of the Berghof site. The clearing can be seen from a distance.
Berghof
The historical terrain layers of the Berghof site will be left untouched. The plateau level will be covered with gravel as a new layer for use and time. A rectangular arrangement of small forest trees grows up in the cleared glade and, in constant change, subtly refers to the location and space of the "Great Hall" – the main room of the former Berghof. Slabs lying on the ground mark the location and provide information about its history and relevance with inscriptions.
new build and renovationThe existing documentation building is being supplemented by a five-story, freestanding new build. Together, the two buildings flank the path to the Berghof. The stone façade of the new building lends it a heavy lightness through a varied interplay of window openings. The building structure and access ensure a high degree of flexibility of use. The new building primarily houses the visitor areas, while the existing building houses the staff areas. Both buildings are connected underground. The bunker is accessible directly from the foyer of the new building. The existing building will be adapted to the new uses where necessary.
PHOTOS, VISUALIZATIONS
Fawad Kazi Architekt GmbH
