Embedded into the green area of a hospital complex, the new pharmacy forms an autonomous addition to the ensemble of the cultural monument. The multi-angled shape of the building derives from the surrounding context and adds to the functional and architectural concept.
The beige-coloured plaster façade was refined with a horizontal broom stroke structure, giving it an iridescent appearance and correspondence to the surrounding, existing buildings.
The slim aluminum windows are flush with the façade. An incision into the building is lined with wooden elements and emphasizes the pharmacy’s main entrance. In contrast to the building’s sharp-edged exterior, the main sales area is a welcoming cocoon.
Characterized by floor-to-ceiling wall paneling and built-in furniture made of dark, wooden surfaces, the visitor enters an unexpectedly sheltered cosmos. Curved, dynamic sales counters with high-gloss lacquered surfaces complete the scenery. Natural daylight enters the room via circular skylights that provide a view of the surrounding treetops.

Building project: Pharmacy at the city forest | new building in Zwickau-Marienthal
Client: Uta Münch
Completion: 2009
Photographer: Maximilian Meisse, Geuther

The sharp-edged, polygonal building uses the existing slope of the spacious property, while its solid shape is deliberately set apart from the gentle landscape and the heterogeneous surrounding neighbourhood.
The monolithic appearance is organized and structured by projections and recesses in the façade. In addition, these areas contrast with the pale exposed concrete thanks to the use of stove-enameled aluminum panels.
Due to the multi-angled shape, all of the rooms are optimally oriented towards the light. The complexity of the sheltered interior spaces is only revealed when entering the house.
The solid exterior contrasts with the coziness of the inside, which is expressed through warm colours and natural surfaces. In combination with open spaces and galleries, this interplay of space gives the house a spaciousness that cannot be guessed at from the outside.
The views of the surrounding nature are accentuated by a small number of precise window openings. Fine lime plaster, high-quality natural stone flooring and built-in furniture with warm surfaces from natural wood complete the picture of a custom-made home.

Building project: Maison du béton | new construction of a residential house in Zwickau-Cainsdorf
Client: Private
Completion: 2009
Photographer: Bertram Bölkow