Designing an architectural homage to someone like Ludwig Van Beethoven is no easy feat. Yet that’s exactly what architecture firm Jahn has attempted to do. Their design is a submission for a privately-funded competition being held for Bonn, Germany’s new “Beethoven Festspielhaus.” Chosen from a group of over 50 candidates, Jahn’s project was among ten advanced to the second round of consideration. The proposal, a glass exterior encapsulating a concrete interior, exhibits “Beethoven’s own dual character which is described as both extroverted and introverted,” as described by the firm. Learn more about this inventive design, and the competition, after the break.
The exterior of Jahn’s dual-volume building is composed entirely of glass, exposing visitors to fantastic views of the adjacent Rhine river, as well as the existing Beethovenhalle nearby. These two halls are connected via a five meter wide pathway, which leads visitors underneath the new hall’s large glass entrance canopy. Pedestrians may also choose to follow this path to the outdoor concert space located at the foot of the building. A steel brise-soleil is attached to the exterior, modeled after Beethoven’s own handwritten scores. This gives the design a direct connection to the composer’s work. The core of the building is set in white concrete, with the concert hall housed within that core set at an angle to receive natural lighting.
Competition judges aim to have a design chosen and constructed by 2020, just in time for Beethoven’s 250th birthday. The proposals of the three finalists, kadawittfeldarchitektur, Valentiny hvp architects, and David Chipperfield Architects, can be viewed here.
Competition
Beethoven Festspielhaus Design CompetitionAward
Competition EntryProject Name
Jahn EntryArchitects
Location
Beethovenhalle, Wachsbleiche 16, 53111 Bonn, GermanyArchitect in Charge
Helmut JahnProject Year
2014Photographs
JahnCompetition
Beethoven Festspielhaus Design CompetitionAward
Competition EntryProject Name
Jahn EntryLocation
Beethovenhalle, Wachsbleiche 16, 53111 Bonn, GermanyProject Year
2014Photographs
Jahn
