Textile Transparency/Biomaterials research centre, Dresden

摘要

A variety of laboratories with a total area of 2,300m~2 can accommodate 70 scientists. Designed by Brenner & Partner Architects and Engineers in Stuttgart, the Centre is also open to an interested public to provide information about current research projects and alleviate any fears about bio-medical technologies. With its clean lines, the building forms a solid mass amidst the pulsating throb of urban traffic. The constantly changing, green cladding of pre-patinated copper is an essential design element of the facade. Behind it are the laboratories, lit by narrow bands of windows and insulated from traffic noise by a glass screen. Between the copper fagade and the glass screen are pergola-like walkways, which form the emergency exit routes from the laboratories. These escape routes flow into the so-called "screen", which disguises the simple, restrained emergency stairways. Depending on the light and viewing angle, the screen always looks different and surprisingly "alive", sometimes suggesting spatial depth and transparency, sometimes seeming smooth and impenetrable; sometimes reflecting the sunlight and sometimes suggesting playful interaction with the wind.