Forum Confluentes | CROSS Architecture

In the spectacular new multi-functional ‘Kulturbau’ at the Zentralplatz in Koblenz, the public library, the Mittelrhein Museum and the tourist information with the interactive experience exhibition “Romanticum” have found a new home with a high recognition value. Situated at the transition between the historic centre and the new town, the cultural building presents itself as an organically shaped volume forming a new landmark with a strong identity in the urban context, which results from its distinctive object-like appearance, the exceptional façade design and the deliberate elevation in the city.

Not only does the combination of three cultural institutions in one building provide the opportunity to exploit comprehensive synergies in day-to-day operations, it also presents the possibility to develop a new building typology, which through its functional added value becomes an inspiring catalyst for the entire cultural landscape in the “Deutsches Eck” region. Starting from this basic conceptual idea, the three uses are grouped around a shared foyer as separate islands. The glass-roofed, spectacular interior space of the central foyer and the atrium expand across several levels up to the publicly accessible rooftop terrace, and spatially and visually connect all functions in an impressive way.

Multi-layered, translucent façade

The multi-layered façade made of white printed glass envelops the building like a translucent veil, powerfully reduces it to an abstract volume and lends the building a magnificent lightness and contemporary elegance. Only the entrances to the building are designed as clearly visible openings and greet the visitor with a welcoming gesture.