Project Info
Architects: Murphy Jahn
Location: Singen, Germany
Lead Designer: Helmut Jahn
Associate Architect: Riede Architekten, Fischer und Partner Architekten
Materials/Products: Clauss Markisen (exterior shades)
Structural Engineer: Werner Sobek Ingenieure
Mechanical Engineer: Transolar Energietechnik
Client: GVV Städtische Wohnungsbaugesellschaft
Project Area: 17,056 sqm
Project Year: 2008
Photographer: Rainer Viertlboeck
Introduction
Hegau Tower’s design is a direct result of close collaboration between architect and client; a clear modernist expression. Located in Singen, Germany, 20 km west of Lake Constance and in immediate proximity to the Swiss border, this design by Murphy Jahn is part of a larger development plan. The redevelopment on the south side of the main train station is a representation of the transition of this industrial town of roughly 45,000 people from production to service based businesses.
Details
The building is full of highly functional and energy efficient details, including thermal mass activation and integration into the HVAC system, exterior flexible shading on southwest facing facades, natural ventilation, nighttime cooling, and daylight optimization.
An extension of the regular façade beyond the building volume with screen walls generates a continuous glass sheet toward the eastern plaza and merges the two buildings into one. The tower is constructed as a concrete frame with stiffening core and perimeter columns. Structure and façade are designed for flexibility in office lay-outs and allow open plan, cell and combine offices as well as multiple tenants per floor. The façade module of 2,70 m fosters a generous ambiance of space.
Sustainable initiatives include the abundant and recurring strategies of daylight, air and water. A windproof, exterior automatic operable sunshade on the southwest façade allows for reduction of solar loads along with automatic interior perforated louvers on the other three facades. Natural ventilation is provided via hopper windows operated via chain motors and held by scissor hinges. The flat concrete slab is equipped with PVC water tubes to cool and heat the exposed thermal mass of the structure.
