K.118

The facade sheets originate from the Ziegler printing factory and their profiles are not identical: they have the same depth, but they vary in width. Thus, the sheets with different profiles cannot be joined together well. The problem was solved by letting the cladding in K.118 overlap. The originally two-storey steel structure is stacked on top of each other to form the framework of the three-storey extension. In plan, the rectangular structure overhangs the existing polygonal building. Instead of shortening, a cantilever was applied, which gives the building a distinctive form. The staircase, which was originally intended to be inside, was moved outside because the staircase and the steel structure have different floor heights. A few additional steps were necessary on the ground and first floor of the new building to adjust the levels to the dimensions of the staircase. In the case of K.118, the functions of the building were separated and thus modularly adaptable, making the spaces resilient to future changes.

K118 was constructed in a way that the components can be taken apart again. The construction remains simple, visible, and accessible. The components are screwed or clamped as far as possible and not glued or mortared. Existing structures can thus be replaced, repaired, or reused more easily. A building’s ability to adapt for future uses, to allow for material reuse and eventually to be disassembled are qualities the building industry should be aiming towards.

When it comes to upscaling the design approach of K. 118, the availability of suitable materials is pivotal. To establish the use of secondary materials in larger scale projects, the network around salvaged materials needs to be strengthened. Documentation of planned building demolitions and available building materials, as well as improved logistics are key factors to this transition.