IZB3

Realizing a design for a research facility brings additional challenges, because of the time that researchers spend on their work floor. As a result, there is a strong need to also accommodate a private area in the workplace. In order to enable the researchers not only to combine work and private life, but above all to be able to deal with both simultaneously.

IZB3 was designed by Maja Frackowiak-Fernandez during her active period at the University of Stuttgart, the design was a case study for the ''Innovation and Start-Up Center for Biotechnology in Munich.

In line with the core activities of this research center, the design is an architectural interpretation of the microscopic view of nanostructures, nerve cells and antibodies, as well as a representation of the abstract and multifaceted way of thinking of the researchers active in this field.

The total volume of the building is characterized by vertical lines, which form and symbolize the connection between the different research institutes in the field of biotechnology. The outer shield takes its shape through a multitude of folds and cuts, this spectacle arouses the interest of the outside world and passers-by, drawing their eyes into the building. This design also illuminates the interior spaces in a playful way with natural sunlight and provides a multitude of sightlines from the inside to the outside and vice versa.

The interior design has been carefully emphasized on communication, personal contact, mobility, and flexibility in terms of furnishing and layout.

A good example of this is that all laboratories and office spaces can be divided into small units, or can be merged into large spaces. In view of the wide variety of wishes and requirements of the building, a large open and central space was chosen in addition to flexibility in spaces.

Where diversity, tranquility and privacy are the benchmark for the separate spaces, the central space is a multifunctional space that stimulates physical contact and personal communication and is a cohesion of different meeting places. This promotes cross-pollination between diverse disciplines, but above all creates a warm place for researchers to come together.