Research and Restoration Centre, Potsdam

The foundation ‘Preußische Schlösser und Gärten’ is consolidating its collections and workshops on the site of the former ‘Hans-Otto-Theater’ on the edge of the UNESCO world cultural heritage ‘Park Sanssouci’. Integrating the large building volume in its context, respecting the protected views and the historic building, posed a significant challenge.
Referencing historic horticultural structures the motif of a greenhouse was transformed into a distinct shape. The displacement of the individual volumes, which are parallel to the historic building, creates diverse in-between spaces that merge with the northern garden. Staggered heights and gabled roofs mediate between the park and the existing buildings.
A greenhouse façade was used on the north side, bringing natural light to the workshops, whereas the southern façade has typical window openings for office spaces. The historic building plays a significant role in its context and is opened to the neighborhood as the entrance to the research center and as a canteen.