For the Swabian state insurance company (LVA Swabia) and its 1.3 million clients we have created a visitor-friendly and transparent building. It represents the LVA as a modern service company with a close connection to the citizens. The new building is composed of a series of single volumes so that the high amount of space could be integrated harmonically in the small-scale urbanistic surrounding. The quality of the architectural complex is not based on the use of expensive materials but on the diversity of the rooms offered and their connection to nature. Although the financial resources were limited, a high design quality could be achieved like this.
An open and inviting atmosphere was created by consequently including the outer spaces and therefore forming a public green axis on this urban site. The stream running through the area was restored to its natural condition. It now flows “through” the building, which is put on columns in the areas concerned. Where the canteen is situated the stream opens up to a small lake surrounding the building. Here the inner space is linked smoothly to the outside space of the terrace, which hangs over the water. In many parts of the building wood was used, it is a natural, renewable building material with special visual and tactual qualities and is an important component of the concept for the materials.
One of our concerns was to create simple and clear connections within the building. Therefore the entrance hall serves as the central point for the entire complex, which opens up horizontally as well as vertically from here. This enables a good orientation to the mainly older visitors of the LVA because all main areas can directly be seen and easily be reached. The totally transparent façade opens up to the park, providing additional orientation marks. All the materials used have been preserved in their original colour. Light wood, exposed concrete, steel stairs, dark parquet floors, light stone and large glass surfaces add up to a bright and natural atmosphere offering a high quality of life.
| LVA Schwaben Office Building Augsburg (D) building costs approx. 89 million EUR start of construction 1998 completion 2002 floor area 57,000 sqm
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