GLOBAL SPACES: Concert Hall by Peter Haimerl
In terms of the conception of architecture, I believe that the subject of materiality is something that brings life to the design idea. One can almost say that it is inherently the personality of the structure. It is one element that makes it possible for architecture to convey emotions. With that said, today’s case study is on Peter Haimerl’s concert hall in Germany. The incredible integration of materiality in this structure exemplifies how architecture can speak a language of its own.
Built in the small village of Bailbach, near the woods of Bavaria in Germany, this concert hall is one of the three proposed buildings to reestablish the image of the city. The concert hall is placed right next to the village square and the community center to further reestablish and strengthen the aspect of the central hub of the city. Upon arrival, a sloped, stone volume welcomes the spectator. This form beckons them to descend a subterranean entrance, and on to the main lobby.
All throughout the interior, the careful choice and mixing of materiality is exhibited. The contrast of the timber with the stone provides a natural typology for this structure. The use of these specific materials also creates a dialogue with the local geography in the area.
Though stone is also used in the interior of the concert hall, the space is comparatively lighter looking compared to the hard-textured exterior. The slits of light provide a new dimension in the space. The acoustics for the interior was heavily researched, and so the materials used, such as untreated concrete, were carefully chosen to provide the best audible experience, but also for the best aesthetic experience. Even the materiality of the seats creates a dialogue with the flooring, hence making it appear to float above the slits of light.
Overall, this concert hall by Peter Haimerl exhibits great refinement when it comes to materiality. It exemplifies how materials are able to transcend a space into something that breeds a life of its own. The building becomes something that is unique and consuming through the careful integration of materials. It is through this that architecture is able to become an entity of its own.
photo credit: edward beierle