Stuttgart

ARENA2036

The "ARENA" building is located on the campus of the University of Stuttgart in Vaihingen. The name "ARENA2036" stands for "Active Research Environment for the Next Generation of Automobiles", a research project that focuses on "Adaptable Production for Lightweight Construction" and the development of new production technologies in automotive engineering.

The highly flexible research platform

"ARENA2036" represents a new form of cooperation between the University of Stuttgart and the private sector. The building is a column-free hall spanned by a crane runway so that all processes can take place anywhere. In addition, there are workshops, technical laboratories and offices for engineers, researchers and the administration.

"ARENA2036 is a highly flexible research platform for future mobility and production."

- Arena

More light

The building responds to the proportions of the site on Pfaffenwaldring with a long structure that derives its sculptural appearance from its distinctive shed roof form, the folded facade on the ground floor, and an incision at the entrance.

The building follows the urban development goals laid down in the master plan of the University of Stuttgart. The sheds are designed without a continuous eaves edge and, in conjunction with the glass ground floor, visually "lift" the structure. The prism-like, slightly reflective panel facade elements consisting of a composite of aluminium on plastic panels reflect the entire surroundings. The facade is made especially unique by the reflection of the large, preserved oak trees on the site.

The material combination is light and flexurally rigid in analogy to the research content of the ARENA. This is because it can be assumed that in the future cars will be built from a composite of lightweight materials. The reduction of the materials and the use of large facade elements give the facades strength and tranquility.

Materiality and transparency

A white, lightweight textile fabric is stretched in frames and serves as a fixed sunshade for the offices on the eastern narrow side. The sails have been arranged in such a way that it is possible to look past them into the landscape. At the same time, they refer to the use of innovative materials - a key research focal point for "ARENA2036".

On the north side of the hall, areas on the upper floor offer a clear view of all that is happening in the hall thanks to the floor-to-ceiling glazing.