References
Architectural Reference
Residential Building for Doctoral Students – TU Garching: 2012–2014
Residential Building for Scientific and Technical Staff
Project Overview
The residential building aims to create a high quality of living and working, and to foster a focused, inspiring atmosphere for academic work. The facade design is deliberately understated and clearly structured. A light terracotta tone enhances the building’s welcoming, communicative character and integrates harmoniously into the campus context.
Architectural Concept
The design concept of the residential building is based on a clear, functional structure that supports both focused academic work and communal living. The spatial organization adheres to the principles of short circulation routes, ample natural light, and clear sightlines. Bright, functionally organized rooms and communal zones foster interaction as well as focused work. The basement level provides spacious work and storage areas that can be flexibly utilized as spaces for projects and portfolios.
Method of Construction
- The architecture is based on conventional brick masonry.
- The exterior brick walls serve as the thermal envelope.
- 9 Residential units: 36.0 – 56.0 m2
Key Figures
- Lot size 903,0 m2
- Building footprint 215,0 m2
- Architectural Service Phases: LPH. 1 – 5
- FAR = 0,238, FSI = 0,435
- Total investment: approx. €1.75 million
Project Workflow and Planning Focus Areas
The starting point of the project was the development of a residential building for research staff and doctoral candidates—a structure designed to meet both the functional requirements of compact living spaces and high standards of living and working quality. Over the course of the project, design concepts regarding floor plan logic, natural lighting, circulation, and functional flexibility were further refined and developed through to the detailed and construction planning stages. A key focus lay on the precise elaboration of structural details, as well as the integration of cost-effective and durable solutions within the context of residential construction.
Collaboration and Project Management
The work was carried out in close coordination with planning partners, specialist engineers, and the client. In addition to classic planning coordination, the collaboration specifically encompassed the management of interfaces between architecture, building services engineering, and structural engineering. By participating in the preparation of tenders and contract awards, planning and execution requirements were integrated at an early stage and optimized for feasibility.
Key Project Focus Areas
Particular emphasis was placed on efficient floor plan organization, cost-effective construction methods, and a clear architectural language within the sensitive university environment. Additionally, the focus extended to a high level of detail in the working drawings, expertise in tendering, and the synthesis of functionality and spatial quality.
Services Provided
- Contribution to design, permitting, and construction planning (LPH 2–5)
- Preparation of working drawings and detailed plans for residential construction
- Development of functional floor plan and usage concepts for student housing
- Preparation of specifications and tender documents
- Assistance with cost estimates and quantity take-offs
- Detailed design of façade and interior fit-out systems
- Coordination with specialist planners and project stakeholders
- Support for procurement and construction preparation
Results / Outcome
The project creates functional, cost-effective, and high-quality living space for a research-oriented environment. Clear planning, efficient floor plans, and meticulous detailing combine to form a sustainable solution with a high degree of everyday practicality. The result is a thoughtfully designed residential project that harmonizes functionality, economic efficiency, and architectural quality.