Herrmanns Architekten, Prof. Henner Herrmanns and Hung Nguyen have proposed as a feasibility study a polygonal concept. The form of the New Synagogue in Koblenz is to be understood as a response to the triangular site. It is placed so that a square is formed at a corner of the property as an open space. Design for the New Synagogue they generously shared with us. For more images and architects description continue after the jump:
From the Architects:
The project was started in 2013/14 due to the fact that in Koblenz (Germany) a synagogue is lacking. Herrmanns Architekten (Prof. Henner Herrmanns and Hung Nguyen) have proposed as a feasibility study a polygonal concept. The form of the synagogue is to be understood as a response to the triangular site. It is placed so that a square is formed at a corner of the property as an open space. The building is partially lifted off the ground and the glazed front entrance welcomes the people. The landscaping and shaped pathways are an integral part of the building’s appearance. The outdoor areas invite people to stay. The ground floor level is characterized by large open spaces allowing for direct and dynamic circulation. The fluid ground floor concept takes users into the open and dynamic spaces of the buildings inside. The floor plan disposition meets the user requirements of the Jewish community. The prayer room in the angular monolith is illuminated by a skylight. The demand for the symbolism of a synagogue building is met by the tattoo facades. The architecture is intended to support symbolic action and thinking. So the facade consists of a metal skin, which gives the building’s form a homogeneous appearance and which is provided with the image of fingerprints to represent the horrific acts of the Holocaust. The architects are of the opinion that Architecture becomes art when the idea of a building touches a meta-level. If it doesn’t touch a meta-level it is only a building. So the form of the synagogue must be loaded with information. A building must also communicate. If it doesn’t produce any kind of afterimage like a good book or a fascinating painting or a wonderful film, it can’t be good. Therefore the design must create a special connotation.
Project: New Synagogue
Designed by Herrmanns Architekten
Location: Koblenz, Germany
Website: herrmanns.wordpress.com
