IC-Complex | Gerber Architekten

The project is a complete strip-out and reconstruction back to shell and core, including a careful facade restoration with complete window replacement.
A comprehensive energy and ecological concept was developed to achieve a truly sustainable building. Contemporary, state-of-the-art facilities are
provided thus enhancing day-to-day communication between students and researchers.
The first part of the Shell and Core Strip-Out and Refurbishment of a high-rise complex of the Ruhr-University Bochum has just begun. The aim is a
fundamental re-development to provide students and scientists with excellent study and research conditions.
Gerber Architects, in association with HOCHTIEF Solutions AG, succeeded in a competition with a Design concept which is based on integrated teaching
and research facilities with energetic and ecological restoration at its heart. Dedicated communication zones and a variety of informal learning areas
facilitate enhanced communication not only amongst research staff but also involving students.
New offices, workshops, lecture halls and laboratories are created. The key challenge was to preserve the building silhouettes and the architectural
characteristics of the 1960s listed buildings whilst at the same time, achieving a fundamentally improved orientation and circulation.
Gerber architects solved this problem by creating two distinct circulation axes. The new East-West route includes new open staircases and creates
vertical and inter-building connectivity. The new North-South route connects the new main entrance to the north with the existing entrance to the south.
Interdisciplinary and high traffic areas like the library, computer labs, administrative areas and offices are located in the core areas of the low level
podium buildings.
Clear linear wayfinding, a variety of visual links together with the landscaped courtyards and vertical open communication links create spatial quality,
user well-being and generate intuitive orientation inside and outside of the building.Clear linear wayfinding, a variety of visual links together with the landscaped courtyards and vertical open communication links create spatial quality, user well-being and generate intuitive orientation inside and outside of the building.
The key challenge for this project lies in the combination of design aspirations, functional and listed buildings requirements but also operational requirements – business continuity is key for the University as end-user. The Design Team, in partnership with HOCHTIEF, developed a bespoke decanting strategy comprising new build facilities as well as existing buildings. To assist with the design and procurement process, a BIM system was adopted and data exchange for this project will be exclusively in the IFC format