Master's Thesis
Existing Building
This master's thesis explores the adaptive reuse of a former malt house in the historic center of Nördlingen, Bavaria. The site, back from the surrounding streets is accessed from three directions and features a noticeable gap along Herrengasse. The existing building is organized around a central corridor (white), surrounded by malting spaces (red), silos (yellow), and the germination facility (grey), the latter of which is not preserved due to its poor structural condition.
Scientific Research
From the outset, the project aimed to create added value not only for the site itself but for the surrounding historic center of Nördlingen. By strengthening social interaction and fostering a sense of community, the proposal enhances both the quality of urban life and the attractiveness of the old town as a residential environment.
The existing structure is largely preserved, while the prominent silo structures are reimagined. A pilot project in Derndorf demonstrated how tall, enclosed spaces can create immersive acoustic experiences. Furthermore, my research has shown that certain geometries may absorb low-frequency sounds almost entirely, while in circular hollow spaces they gradually overlap and create a soft echo.
This inspired the concept of a music academy, where sound becomes a tool to activate and reinterpret the former industrial spaces. The project establishes a cultural hub that encourages interaction, enriches the city's cultural offering and attracts visitors and artists alike.
Step By Step - Pictogramms
The diagrams illustrate the removal of the former germination facility while retaining its outer walls. A integrated extension is placed within this structure, providing barrier-free access and, together with the existing walls, forming a court. Two additional volumes complete the ensemble, creating a dynamic central square in dialogue with the gabled roofs of the existing building. The roof of the extension is shaped in response to acoustic requirements while also referencing Nördlingen's historic building regulations. Each building is assigned a distinct function, with the new volumes introducing residential and gastronomic uses to complement the music academy. Finally, the stage is partially extended from the existing structure, allowing it to be used from both inside and outside, and bringing life to the newly created square.
Adaptive Reuse - Interior
The ground floor plan shows the open stage and the large performance silo in the eastern part of the building. In the upper levels, additional silos of varying sizes and geometries become apparent, allowing visitors to actively engage with sound and experiment with different spatial conditions. The upper floors accommodate teaching spaces, while the top floor of the extension contains a concert hall that can also be used for larger events.
Adaptive Reuse - Facade
During the design process, I questioned how the creative and acoustic identity of the academy could be expressed outwardly. Inspired by research on Le Corbusier's Convent Sainte-Marie de La Tourette, I developed a facade system in collaboration with a mathematician friend. Wooden slats are arranged according to a simple mathematical grid, creating a deliberate contrast to the industrial character of the existing building.
Along Herrengasse, the distinctive facade allows the academy to break out of its courtyard condition and become visible within the urban context. In contrast to La Tourette, the slats are designed as a suspended facade, providing shading and improving the building's climatic performance. Inside, the spaces are shaped by a changing rhythm of light and shadow throughout the day.
Transformation
Finally, this shows the transformation of the former malt house. The building evolves from an obsolete industrial structure into a vibrant place for community and interactive music-making.
