The complete overhaul of campus in Preetz took place in two stages. First was the expansion of the Department of Music and Social Education that created much needed space. The new two-story building is located just north of the original building, which was built in the 70s. The massing consists of an ground floor defined by amorphous shapes upon which the clearly structured bar containing classrooms is placed.
The floor plan is separate from the concrete column grid and plate construction. This results not only in the usable space of various required functions, but also in diverse nooks and crannies that form informal meeting places. In 2011 the main building underwent an extensive refurbishment. All facades were upgraded to meet modern, sustainable energy standards as well as modified to created a more holistic campus atmosphere with the new extension. Through generous skylights, larger window openings, as well as refurbished, bright interiors, a more user friendly environment was created to facilitate social interaction. A natural ventilation system brings additional savings in energy consumption.
Photos: archimage, Meike Hansen, Hamburg