Coastal Competence Center

Several institutes are located on the campus of the Helmholtz Centre in Geesthacht, including the Institute of Materials Research, the Institute of Polymer Research and the Institute of Coastal Research. As part of a reorganisation, the research focus was expanded and new subject areas established. The aim was to adapt the structural infrastructure to the associated modern requirements and to make the campus more accessible to external user groups.

In the first phase of the project, the focus was on the urban development of the site. Two new buildings were realised: a laboratory extension in the south-western section of the campus and another new building in the northern section. With its architecture, the laboratory extension marks the start of a new design line within the campus and at the same time creates a striking address on Max-Planck-Strasse. Together with an existing building opposite, the new building forms a gateway situation – the new entrance to the Institute of Coastal Research.

The façade design of the new buildings is based on existing materials such as clinker brick and concrete. Wood is also used on the exterior. In this way, a uniform architectural identity is being developed for the research centre.

In this project, bicon was responsible for work phases 6 to 9, including tendering, contract award and site supervision. The project was completed in 2017.