Conversion of Marien Church Bochum to a Chamber Music Hall, 2009.
In Cooperation with SATIJNplus Architects, Born (NL). Architectural Competition 3rd prize

The theme of the design is the equitable coexistence of old and new. The old is to remain in existence wherever it does not cause functional limitations. However everywhere where it needs to be renewed anyway because of structural deficiencies the new will come through very confidently without impeding the quality of the existing structure. Old and new should not merge but rather enter a dialogue as individual entities from which both will profit. This philosophy manifests itself both in the external appearance of the converted church and in its interior.

On the outside the roof, stairwells, office blocks and wind capture boxes form both a formal and material contrast to the brick architecture of the church, particularly the new church roof, which is clad with perforated aluminium sheeting aims to give the church something of a signal effect that establishes the church as the anchor point for the area.

The interior lives off the contrast between the glass chamber music room and the solid church walls. The room’s glass skin takes away its volume. At the same time the interior of the church comes alive inside the room. The existing window openings on the church also allow views of the direct vicinity of the church and gives passers-by the opportunity to look in at the events in the chamber music room.