PROFILE: BEN VAN BERKEL


UNStudio has launched an online knowledge platform aimed at faciliating the open exchange of knowledge within architecture


Can you tell us about the Mercedes Benz Museum?


The building cost E150m (E100m for the structure and E50m for the interior). When the client fi rst approached us there was talk of creating a showroom for the car collection, but we suggested that it should be more of a museum space; a space that would appeal to the public, where industrial products could be seen in the same way artworks are viewed – from many angles and perspectives, and from close up and far away.


Did you look at any other brand-focused architecture projects for inspiration? Actually we looked more at museum architecture. Our interest was more about creating an experience for the visitor that would go hand in hand – conceptually, vis- ually and spatially – with what was being displayed. It was very important for us to go beyond brand-focused architecture.


UNStudio is a global practice. Do you adjust your approach to take account of cultural diff erences? We always try to understand a new loca- tion. At the moment, we’re working in two new countries – we have a lot of work in Australia, and we are currently working on a new metro system in Qatar. We have thorough discussions with the


client and with our local advisers; we also like to work with local engineers and architects to enrich our knowledge of the area. We refer to the location, the history and the context of every project, but we always add new insights, and reinterpret it so that it’s forward-looking.


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The auditorium ceiling panels can be raised, lowered and angled differently, giving the venue fl exibility to host a wide range of performances


The curved shape means wind fl ow to a nearby windmill isn’t disturbed


Theatre de Stoep Spijkenisse, Netherlands 2014


The design of Theatre de Stoep takes into account the theatre as a place of wonder and illusion, at the same time as being a place of community and social interaction. Inside, Van Berkel uses the volu- minous foyer – with no columns, it is unobstructed throughout – and sculptural staircase to create a huge foyer space where people can gather and socialise, conceived as a stage for the visitors themselves. The 5,800sq m venue features a main 650-seat auditorium, with a smaller theatre space for 200 audience members. The ceiling in the main auditorium is adjustable, meaning it can be adapted to meet the acoustic needs of different types of performances.


The building also houses a café,


a restaurant and an artists’ café, dressing rooms and office space under the theatre roof.


UNStudio was able to keep costs low thanks to its capabilities in Design Information Modelling and Building information modelling methodologies, which can digitally model and test structures before the construction phase begins.


CLADmag 2015 ISSUE 1


©UN STUDIO


©PETER GUENZEL


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