Knie’s Magic Hat embodies the world of magic. Built at the heart of Knie’s Children’s Zoo, the airy form of the rising structure evokes a magician’s cloth or a circus tent. Visitors come here in search of the exotic—an expectation further enhanced by the oriental character of its architectural language. The winning design of the architectural competition serves both as a venue for performances and as a hall for events outside the daytime program. The free-spanning folded-plate roof gives the centrally arranged arena its spectacular character.

Through its enclosing quality, this canopy creates a gentle spatial atmosphere and contributes to a balanced acoustic environment. Terraced levels and projecting seating steps integrate the new building into its existing context. To the north, the roof rests on the ancillary rooms of the arena, which form the building’s backbone. In order to accommodate the difference in levels and ensure level access between the north and south sides, the ancillary spaces are partially embedded below ground. During the day, access is provided via the forecourt, while deliveries are handled through a gate to the northwest.

To the south, large portals line the pavilion. Thanks to the timber construction using prefabricated elements, the construction and assembly period was short and efficient. Clad in shimmering metal scales and rising to a height of 25 meters, the structure possesses the expressive presence desired for the children’s zoo and at the same time shapes the city skyline.