Psychiatry Campus at Frankfurt University Hospital
The Psychiatry Campus at Frankfurt University Hospital is to be modernised and expanded in order to meet an increasing demand for space, and to provide patients with appropriate care as well as fulfil research needs. The first construction phase envisages two new buildings with associated external facilities. In addition, House 93, designed by the architect Martin Elsaesser and completed in 1931, is also due to be renovated. The entire complex and its associated gardens all have listed status.
The design by schneider+schumacher Städtebau GmbH with GINA Barcelona Architects and WGF Objekt Landschaftsarchitekten GmbH won second prize in an interdisciplinary ideas and realisation competition involving 18 consortiums. The design envisages two buildings, each staggered towards the interior landscaped green spaces. Planted terraces enhance views as well as provide access to the communal park and private garden, while responding to the topography of the site. A central concern has been to preserve the therapeutic quality of the green space in order to enhance the quality of life for patients – as is the sensitive integration of the new buildings into the historical ensemble, which aims to preserve its architectural quality as well as the historic fabric.
The heritage conservation organisation deemed the design to be a successful and appropriate response to Elsaesser’s architecture. According to the jury: ‘Linear, finely structured, T-shaped structures form the southern end of the historic Elsaesser building and divide the large landscaped inner courtyard into easily usable areas without detracting from its spaciousness. The clear, spatial definition of the outdoor space with the open design of the historic building ensemble is skilfully incorporated and developed.’
According to the Landesbetrieb Bau und Immobilien Hessen, the award-winning designs form a solid foundation for further developing the plans and a potential realisation of the first construction phase. Further decisions will be made in the summer.