With renewable building materials and resource-saving use of existing infrastructure, Münster University of Applied Sciences has expanded the Fachhochschulzentrum (FHZ) on Corrensstraße. Behnisch Architekten, in collaboration with Berghaus Architekten, has planned a new upper floor in timber construction that complements the existing building, built in 1974 and renovated in 2014.

The interior clay ceiling has both a cooling and warming effect and naturally regulates the humidity in the rooms. On the outside, the roof will be covered with a photovoltaic system and additional greenery, preserving the natural water balance and increasing biodiversity.

The extension offers new offices for the business faculty as well as open space and creative areas for all students. The Münster UAS has around 592 square meters more space available at this location. Visually, the new fifth floor is set apart by a striking façade with fixed solar shading made of expanded metal, which reduces solar heat gain in summer.