The Pasing Arcaden center in Munich offers shopping and restaurants as well as residential and office space in a single large-scale structure. The structure accomplishes two things in its typology: firstly, it contrasts with and encloses this small, recently developed urban center, secondly, it provides a fitting counterpoint to the train station and the bypass to the rear, a convenient transportation hub that is both prominent and burdensome for the community.
As a lively public space, the Pasing Arcaden center offers a range of new urban amenities for local residents. The lower levels house a shopping center, with two-story residences constructed on its flat roof. Appearing as standalone mortared structures, the apartments are arranged around green spaces and terraces.
A metallic white exterior shell made of powder-coated aluminum panels defines the character of the entire complex. Although the same material is used throughout, the façade varies in design with some sections perforated, satin-finished or transparent:
This makes it easy for outside observers to distinguish between the different parameters of the house and sets the diverse sides, sections and façades apart from their surroundings.
Subtle openings and folds in the façade moderate the dominance of the large-scale structure, enabling this landmark building to harmonize with the existing urban structures.
Realization:
Competition:
Specialist planners:
Schüßler Plan, Duesseldorf (Structural design)
HTW, Duesseldorf (Building services)
Topotek 1, Berlin (Landscape design)
Photography:
Brigida González
2011 DGNB Gold Certificate – Pasing Arcaden, Munich
2011 JSH Prize – Pasing Arcaden, Munich