Freie Universität Berlin Institute of Animal Nutrition

Berlin, Germany

Photo © Werner Huthmacher Photography

Architects: huber staudt architekten bda

Location: Königin-Luise-Straße 49, 14195 Berlin, Germany
Year: 2010
Task: conversion laboratory building
Time: 2008 - 2011
Usable area: 643 qm
Gross floor area: 1.101 qm
Costs: 2,4 Mio. EUR
Client: Freie Universität Berlin
Project-team: Enno Efkes, Sofia Grammatikopulu, Christian Huber, Joachim Staudt

Modern research facilities on the optimization of animal nutrition fill the old building envelope of a heritage-listed former stable building of the historical Manor, today the open-air museum Dahlem Domain, with new life.

The conversion of the building with its prominent location at the intersection Königin - Luise - Straße and Pacelliallee integrates the veterinary research facilities of the FU on the listed ensemble of the Dahlem domain. The orientation of the seminar room towards Pacelliallee and enlarged window openings in front of the laboratories make the extensive use of the laboratory visible. The southern gable opens with a large window to the entrance of the Dahlem domain and promotes the new establishment of a public nutrition consultation for animals. The choice of colour and material creates an obvious reference to the old manor house, the main building of the estate.

The building originates in the current version from the 1960´er years and is based on the foundations of the predecessor buildings, former stable buildings of the Dahlem domain. Two independent stairwells and a handicapped-accessible lift will rearrange the access to the building. A small forecourt at the main entrance with its planting and a long bench outside the delimited area creates a special quality of stay.

The ground floor is divided into a public area facing the street and a rear laboratory area, some with S 2 requirements. The secretariat and writing room at the entrance provide access control. The main laboratory for molecular and microbiology, designed as a large area, is optimally supplemented by docked serving rooms; laboratories for immunology and isotope technology are located in adjacent rooms. The measure was supported by funds from the Economic Stimulus Package II.