Kunsthaus Göttingen by Atelier ST
At the heart of Göttingen's historic old town stands a new architectural gem, the Kunsthaus Göttingen designed by the Atelier ST.
Atelier ST's design philosophy for Kunsthaus Göttingen pays homage to the region's architectural vernacular. The building’s external façade mirrors the intricate details and geometries characteristic of the old town, subtly transformed into a contemporary aesthetic. This approach ensures that the Kunsthaus is seamlessly embedded in its historic context while unmistakably asserting its identity as a contemporary arts venue.
One of the most striking features of the Kunsthaus is its exterior surface. The use of horizontal modelling plaster with a linear structure evokes the appearance of stacked papers, a nod to the building's primary exhibits: works on paper. This surface treatment employs an almost forgotten historical technique known as combed modelling plaster. The process involved meticulously combing soft, natural mineral plaster with a specially designed template, creating irregular grooves that echo the textures found in the town's older buildings. This method not only provides a tactile connection to the past but also enriches the building’s modern façade with a sense of historical continuity.
Despite the challenges posed by a small plot size, the Kunsthaus boasts spacious and flexible exhibition areas, thanks to its column-free reinforced concrete structure. Each storey is cantilevered, maximizing the available exhibition space and drawing a visual connection to the surrounding half-timbered structures. This architectural maneuver enhances the building’s integration into the urban fabric of Göttingen, while its distinctive form, punctuated by minimal yet shimmering metallic openings, signals its contemporary purpose.
Internally, the Kunsthaus is designed to accommodate a dynamic range of activities. The ground floor’s foyer acts as a transitional space, linking the public street to the inner courtyard of the art district. The exhibition levels, primarily dedicated to photography, new media, and works on paper, benefit from a sophisticated artificial lighting system that allows for precise control, essential for preserving delicate artworks. The few strategically placed windows offer curated glimpses of the city, enhancing the viewers’ experience without compromising the display environment.
The top floor is dedicated to art education, featuring large, naturally lit rooms that can host seminars, special events, and lectures. A terrace on the west side, accessible through sliding glass doors, provides an inviting outdoor space for gatherings. This level can also serve additional exhibition purposes, offering versatility in programming. Practical amenities, including a small serving kitchen, further support the functionality of the space.
The Kunsthaus Göttingen is a building that not only respects and reflects its historical surroundings but also boldly defines itself as a center for contemporary art and education. Through its thoughtful design and innovative use of materials, Kunsthaus Göttingen promises to be a pivotal space in Göttingen's cultural landscape, fostering both local and international artistic dialogues.
Photography: Simone Bossi
Text: Hitoshi Arato