2nd Place

Gerber Architekten GmbH

Dortmund

Overview of submitted design briefs

• Design brief: "Arrival Building" 
• Design brief: "Architectural Concept amd Open Space Design" 
• Design brief: "Roll Call Square"
• Design brief: "Room of Silence"
• Design brief: "Semantic Link Gusen – St. Georgen"
• Explanatory texts

Participating consultants:

• Bollinger und Grohmann ZT GmbH
• Welatech GmbH
• Dr. Pfeiler GmbH

Jury evaluation

The project-specific recommendations have been implemented effectively.

Architectural and artistic solution

The design is characterised by a restrained approach and a respectful treatment of historical remains. Architectural interventions are minimal and carefully placed. The arrival building integrates well with the topography and the entrance route via the railway shed is considered successful. The stone crusher is incorporated well into the tour.

The narrative arc exploring the perpetrator and victim perspectives is skilfully conveyed through the visitor route. The ‘Room of Silence’, as a separate box in the woods, achieves an atmospheric quality, though its architectural form appears somewhat arbitrary.

The outdoor spaces near the SS barracks demonstrate a sensitive approach to dealing with existing structures, although the choice of materials in the plans remains deliberately non-specific in some areas.

Overall, the architectural language is understated. Some elements require interpretive engagement.

Urban planning solution

The urban planning concept is convincing due to its natural integration into the landscape. Visitor circulation and zoning are functional. The circular path opens up meaningful visual connections without emphasising structural interventions.

The roll call square, intended as the central site of remembrance, lacks clarity in design. The proposed material (‘joint-free paving’) remains vague. The semantic link using mirrors and a double row of trees appears impractical.

The effect of the St. Georgen an der Gusen site is diminished by additional rows of trees and greenery. There is no discernible connection to the tunnel complex in St. Georgen an der Gusen, suggesting that the link between the two locations has not been fully thought through.

Functional solution

The functional requirements are mostly well met. Visitor circulation is logical, with clear routes and designated stopping and resting points. The ‘Room of Silence’ is set apart and fulfils its contemplative purpose. 

Archaeological remains are treated sensitivity with conservation in mind. The design meets the requirements of the educational work very effectively.

Sustainability and energy efficiency

The plans and texts contain a statement on sustainability. This issue would need to be addressed in greater depth during the negotiation process.

Cost estimate

The submitted cost estimate is plausible and transparent. The estimated costs fall below the specified budget. The estimated costs would need to be examined in more detail during the negotiation process.

Implementation stages

The implementation phases are set out in a plausible manner and fit within the specified time frame.