VGP II administrative building in Frauenfeld

Client

City of Frauenfeld

Task

Administration building

Staff Members

Frank Roskothen, Ivano Zanetti

Status

Competition design 2003

The clear and concisely composed building cites those around it in its basic structure, but takes their design even further. In terms of urban development, the old square is closed and transformed into an attractive space accessible to the general public.
Hedges enhance and focus the connection to the buildings situated on the square. The hedges create a separate space that faces the structures, a kind of fifth element alongside the four main buildings that give body to the square. The precise, rectangular shape has a calm, clear and urban feel.

The new building both refers to and shows consideration for the existing structures. Key formal elements, such as horizontal divisions and rhythm, are reflected in the design.

The ground floor is laid out with a circumferential base, which also becomes the canopy for the entrance area. The upper storeys are separated by fine, horizontal lines. The termination of the roof is reinforced to create a clear finish to the structure. The supports for the upper storeys are twisted at irregular intervals to lend movement and rhythm to the facade.

The inner courtyard is designed to serve as a quiet space attached to the office building.