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Architects: GRAFT
- Year: 2013
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Photographs:Tobias Hein
Text description provided by the architects. GRAFT was commissioned to remodel a former parking area on the site of VW Autostadt in Wolfsburg, Germany.
The task was to create a quiet area where the buyer of a new car could get familiar with all the functions in an almost private atmosphere. The space had to be protected from rain and direct sunlight, while allowing enough daylight to avoid the usage of energetically expensive and unnecessary artificial light.
We developed the idea of a horizontal leaf that protects the landscape underneath with its organic form. In the architectural application of this image, it was necessary to produce the greatest possible lightness: A special static principle allows for the roof to rest in just two points. It lays in the landscape and defines a clear and protected room. The orientation of the roof represents a welcoming gesture through its curvature. The elegant amorphous geometry of the roof structure forms an evident bridge between top and bottom, between sky and landscape.
The associated service pavilion fulfills various functions: the customer can ask questions about his new car or purchase accessories. As the roof follows the concept of a leaf, the pavilion is integrated into the architectural landscape and not designed as a separate building. Basic forms of shelter can be found in the expression of the internal architecture.
