kadawittfeldarchitektur integrates archaeological pavilion into aachen park

kadawittfeldarchitektur integrates archaeological pavilion into aachen park
image © jens kirchner | kadawittfeldarchitektur

located in the elisen garden park in aachen, germany, local studio kadawittfeldarchitektur has completed a glass pavilion, framing archeological discoveries found at the site. during extensive excavations remnants spanning from the neolithic period (4700 bc) to the high and late middle ages (ca. 910-1500) were revealed. enabling the public to experience these hidden jewels, a 60m² protective shell was built around the two-meter deep cuts.

this historical strata is mirrored in the concept of the pavilion’s form, the outside consists of two layers of diagonally overlapping stainless steel profiles and the space in-between invites the visitor to wander in from the park and enjoy the important archaeological finds.

the archeological vitrine with a view of aachens cathedral beyond
image © jens kirchner | kadawittfeldarchitektur

the elliptical shape of the pavilion integrates into the natural terrain of the garden’s landscaping. the path connecting to the historic treasures leads directly through it, turning a casual stroll into one of discovery and surprise. offering a contemplative refuge, the glass vitrine opens towards the surrounding nature to create a space where one can rest or engage with the site’s history.

the path runs tangent to the site and leads through the archeological pavilion
image © jörg hempel | kadawittfeldarchitektur

the middle enclosure protects the findings, enabling one to view them from different perspectives, as well as regulating natural air flow. the volume also serves as a resource of information: a revolving timeline, a site map as well as a compact and clearly arranged illustration of the found structures and artifacts, without obscuring the overall view of the site.

the various settlement structures eras of urban history are echoed through multilayered elements
image © jens kirchner | kadawittfeldarchitektur

the in-between layer functions as contemplative + informative space, opening up to the surrounding gardens
image © jens kirchner | kadawittfeldarchitektur

the outside shell consists of two delicate layers of diagonally overlapping steel profiles
image © jens kirchner | kadawittfeldarchitektur

transparency and permeability offer visual relations between the archaeological findings and the surrounding park
image © jens kirchner | kadawittfeldarchitektur

star-like LED-downlights discreetly light the interior space and the finds
image © jens kirchner | kadawittfeldarchitektur

the pavilion illuminated
image © jörg hempel | kadawittfeldarchitektur

ground floor

sectional drawings

site plan

project info:

architect: kadawittfeldarchitektur
client: city of aachen with the support of DSA – daten- und systemtechnik gmbh
construction size: ea 155m² gfa 160m² volume 590m²
competition: 2009 – 1st prize
duration: 2012 – 2013

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