Max Planck Center for Physics and Medicine (ZPM), Erlangen

Under the direction of the State Building Authority Erlangen–Nuremberg, a urban planning realization competition was held in 2009 as part of an architectural competition. Its objective was to develop a forward-looking research campus on the northern site of the University Hospital, in close proximity to clinical medical facilities as well as other research institutions.

In the subsequent planning phase, and in coordination with the University Hospital and the Free State of Bavaria, it was also decided to establish the “Center for Physics and Medicine” (ZPM) of the Max Planck Society. Together with the additional new research buildings, it is accessed via a central forecourt. The generously designed plaza is intended to promote interaction among staff, patients, and visitors and constitutes an important element of the overall open-space concept.

The main entrance to the ZPM is located on the eastern side of the new building. The foyer extends along the entire length of the building in a north–south direction, opens representatively to the exterior space, and connects to the inner courtyard.

The cafeteria, seminar area, and communication and lounge spaces—located in close proximity to the reception area—surround the inner courtyard and offer a high quality of stay. Various workshops are situated in the northern part of the ground floor, while the administrative offices are located in the southern section.

The compact four-story building, with an almost square floor plan, is essentially divided into two functional areas: the laboratory and office area, which also receives natural light via the inner courtyard. The laboratory area is located in the western part of the building, while the office area adjoins it in a U-shape on the eastern side. The animal housing facilities are situated in the northern section of the building’s basement level.

Meeting rooms are arranged on the south-east corner of the new building on all floors. An additional meeting area on the second upper floor, the so-called “Brain Lounge,” offers comfortable seating as well as facilities for presentations. This area is connected by a bridge to the neighboring TRC IV research building and serves as a central hub for communication and scientific exchange.

The façade of the compact building volume is structured by horizontal banding. The solid exterior wall surfaces are clad with a ventilated curtain-wall façade system consisting of anodized aluminum paneling. In selected areas, expanded metal elements are used, creating an interplay between smooth and textured surfaces.