Culture Reactor Rüdersdorf

Technische Universität Braunschweig

Project idea

Following the motto "Resource Rüdersdorf", the entire area is to be transformed into a coherent, self-sufficient quarter. The architectural framework allows for adaptation to the respective needs of the users.
The Kulturschmiede serves to generate ideas and to implement them. Its dimensions and structure are ideally suited for the integration of, for example, stage design workshops, coworking spaces and studios.
The Kulturreaktor, on the other hand, provides the architectural scale for the performance and experience of cultural products.
In order to enliven the neighbourhood during a festival and to avoid long walks, the large fallow meadow to the west of the site will be converted into a campsite. A boardwalk integrates the element of water into the design and connects this area with the event spaces.

The vibrant first floor zones will create a unique focal point all year round, with a multi-faceted, creative commercial offer, sustainable and regional gastronomy and ever-changing use scenarios.
The large concrete slabs are a reminder of the days when heavy machinery was driven across the site.

Project description

The Rack
The existing concrete structure with its levels was converted into a planting shelf, which takes up the aspects of circular economy and self-sufficiency. The six hoppers were converted into aquaponics tanks, and the fertiliser produced is returned to the cycle.
On top, the structure has been extended. More intimate, multifunctional group spaces provide opportunities for yoga classes, readings or seminars. Almost like a skyscraper, a whole new perspective is offered across the Oasis to the Cube.

The Oasis
During the decades of vacancy, nature has made the ruins its own. Once the area has been transformed, it is only natural to reintegrate the plants into the concept, as they are as much a part of the original situation as the massive concrete structures.
Stress is an increasingly common condition in people's everyday lives. The Oasis is designed to counteract this and provide a place of relaxation. Visitors can enter translucent orbs that land like UFOs in clearings in the jungle. Lifted into a world of their own, passengers are offered a new perspective on the hall's impressive dimensions.

The Cube
The structuring element of the hall is the cube, which appears to float weightlessly above a 360° bar at the entrance on both sides. Aligned with the existing grid and wrapped in a glass dress, it communicates strongly with the building structure of the Kulturreaktor. The bar is the social hub of the reactor and can be a casual meeting place outside of concert hours.
The floors are shifted towards the stage, allowing it to be used as a tribune during a performance. The front facade can be fully unfolded, allowing the cube to merge with the stage.

The Stage
The aim of the stage is to enable as many cultural scenarios as possible to take place. Different social groups are to be provided with an architectural framework that offers opportunities for development ranging from classical orientation to experimental forms of performance.
The stage is divided into a number of segments, each of which can be individually adjusted in height. This allows for a wide variety of performance forms. Emerging cultural forms can also be presented here. The Kulturreaktor is ready for the future.

Technical information

The unique spatial impression of the old factory is preserved by clever additions of selected building blocks and thus transformed into a future-oriented cultural reactor. Whether in the green, high up or in versatile stage settings – the Kulturreaktor brings together different social currents and unites them in one building.

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