‘Publix’ – the House of Journalism and Public Affairs – together with the neighbouring ‘Spore Initiative’, forms an independent public urban quarter that mediates between closed perimeter blocks and the large cemetery areas along Hermannstraße.A ‘meeting place’ forms the guiding principle of the architectural typology, realised through a variety of open spaces in relation to their functions. Between the staggered volumes of the two buildings, the public street space is expanded, creating a forecourt-like setting. A distinctive space for activity emerges, forming the shared address of the two institutions. The historic cemetery gate is integrated into the open space concept and is situated between the two buildings.

The structure, with its rough-cast monolithic concrete façade, positions itself confidently within the urban landscape, creating a resilient and strong character. The interplay between transparency and solidity reflects the building’s ambivalence. The generous glass surfaces on the ground floor connect the building to the surrounding urban space and provide the public with easy access to a unique venue for journalism, the exchange of views, and the preservation of democracy. At the same time, the building is intended to provide a safe space for journalists and civil society organisations working with sensitive information and vulnerable people.

The building was developed in close collaboration with its future users, allowing the spatial programme and layout to be directly tailored to their specific needs and modes of working.

The ground floor, conceived as an open spatial continuum, functions as a forum animated by interwoven spatial functions – including reception, canteen, box, conference room, and audio-video studios. The result is a place for communication and interaction between the journalists and organisations within the building, the neighbourhood, and the general public.

Mobile and foldable wall elements allow the forum’s layout to be adapted and used flexibly. A stairway made of Douglas fir planks from local forests, crafted in a traditional carpentry style, forms the centrepiece of the forum.

The interior material composition of galvanised steel, exposed concrete, and Douglas fir, together with exposed installations, deliberately evokes the image of a journalistic workshop and distinguishes the building from a conventional office block.