In Mannheim, Germany, the Green Experience Center at Luisenpark, designed by Bez+Kock Architekten, seamlessly integrates with the surrounding landscape, offering a harmonious fusion of architecture and nature.

Organic Pavilion Design

Unlike traditional buildings, the pavilions of the Green Experience Center are conceived as organic, single-story structures, allowing them to blend effortlessly into the park’s environment. With elegantly curved roofs and floor-to-ceiling glazed interiors, these pavilions provide a seamless transition between indoor and outdoor spaces.

Curved Roof Structure

A gracefully curved roof structure, supported by delicate pillars, covers the glazed interiors, creating a fluid connection with the surrounding park. Dark green glazed ceramic elements enclose the interior spaces, complementing the natural setting. Canopies surrounding the pavilions offer visitors protection from the elements while maintaining an open atmosphere.

Functional Integration

Spanning approximately 120 meters in length and up to 30 meters in width, the curved roof structure connects various functional areas within the center. At the southern end, a park restaurant welcomes visitors with panoramic views of the Kutzerweiher pond. Adjacent to the restaurant is a walk-in free-flight aviary, featuring a landscaped environment with ponds and watercourses.

Penguin Installation

A distinct feature of the center is the penguin installation, covering 580 square meters and featuring dynamically curved contours. The landscape around the installation combines real granite with artificial rock formations, creating a natural habitat for the penguins. A large pool allows visitors to observe the penguins both above and below water.

Integration with Nature

The design incorporates natural elements such as a rammed concrete wall, which follows the shoreline of the Kutzerweiher pond, mimicking the layers of sediment found in a quarry. Visitors can descend into an underwater world through a cut in the concrete wall, where they can view fish from various continents in 21 aquarium tanks.

Identity-Defining Ensemble

The Green Experience Center has transformed Luisenpark, giving it a distinctive identity for the Federal Horticultural Show BUGA 2023. The center’s organic design and seamless integration with nature offer visitors a unique and immersive experience, setting a new standard for architectural harmony with the environment.