Campus for Research, Development and Light Industrial
Ludwigsburg · 2021
Following an initial planning study and subsequent competition entry, the design sets out a long-term vision for the former MANN+HUMMEL production site in Ludwigsburg. The aim is to transform the established industrial site into a multifunctional campus for research, development and light industrial uses, including high-tech production, assembly, testing, logistics, offices and shared amenities.
- Client
- INBRIGHT Development GmbH
- Location
- Ludwigsburg – Mann+Hummel Areal
- Type of works
- New build and Refurbishment of existing building
- Commission type
- Expert review procedure, Competition – 3rd place
- Work stages (HOAI)
- 1-2
- Status
- Not realised
- Typology
- Industry & Commerce, Office & Administration, Light Industrial & Logistics, Competitions & Assessments
- Year
- Gross floor area (GFA)
- 107,800 m²
- Gross volume
- 483,100 m³
Updated:
The site is divided into four distinct yet interconnected clusters. Clusters I and II are conceived as prominent new buildings, while Clusters III and IV retain, adapt, extend and partly add storeys to the existing fabric. Bridges between the clusters allow adjacent areas to be combined into larger functional units. Rather than replacing the industrial structure, the concept uses it as the basis for gradual development.
A cross-quarter passage forms the spatial backbone of the campus, connecting the site with its surroundings and creating a new social centre. Gastronomy, local services, coworking, fitness and leisure areas complement the workplaces and production spaces. The circulation concept consistently separates pedestrian, delivery and car traffic, keeping the central axis largely free of vehicles.
A key principle is the resource-conscious use of the existing fabric. Buildings and technical infrastructure are retained wherever appropriate, while green roofs, photovoltaics and vertical gardens support the sustainability strategy. The former production site is thus transformed into a flexible, green research and work campus that combines industrial identity, new uses and high-quality public space.
Urban Design
The urban concept divides the site into four clusters, combining existing and new buildings into a coherent campus. A central passage forms the spatial backbone, while courtyards and paths connect the individual elements across it. Existing buildings worth retaining are carefully integrated and complemented by new volumes without overriding the established structure.
Volumetric Model
The model studies show how the new buildings are integrated into the established factory structure. Distinct new volumes define the edges, while existing halls and office buildings remain part of the overall composition. Varied building heights and green roofs mediate between the industrial scale, campus character and surrounding urban fabric.
Longitudinal Section North-South through Clusters II & III
Longitudinal Section North-South through Clusters I & IV
Sections
The longitudinal and cross-sections illustrate the stepped building heights and the interplay of halls, offices, parking and passage. Large hall volumes are combined with multi-storey office and research areas. The connecting passage remains clearly legible as an independent, publicly oriented level running through the quarter.
Cluster III: Building on the Existing Structure
The existing structure of Cluster III is largely retained and selectively developed. Building 2.3 accommodates a major share of the parking in a multi-storey car park and gains an additional floor. A daycare centre with its own roof garden is placed above, introducing a new use within the existing structure.
Cross Section West-East through Clusters I & II
Cross Section East-West through Clusters III & IV
Clusters I / IV: Parking Below, Deliveries at Ground Level
In Clusters I and IV, parking and deliveries are clearly separated from publicly accessible areas. Cars are accommodated on the lower level, while the halls are served directly at ground level. This keeps the central pedestrian routes largely free of car and truck traffic and preserves a high-quality public realm.
Clusters I / IV: Offices on the First and Second Floors
Flexible office and research spaces are arranged above the halls and production-related areas. On the first floor, they partly line the halls as mezzanines or open onto their double-height spaces; the second floor provides continuous office areas. The layout creates short routes between development, administration and production.
Clusters IV / III: Halls and Showrooms The Clusters combine halls, showrooms and complementary uses with the existing building fabric. Large production and presentation areas occupy the ground floor, while parts above remain open as voids. Conversion, vertical extension and new construction form a flexible, closely interlinked industrial structure.
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