2_1_DiscoverGermany_December14_Issue21:Scan Magazine 1
20/11/14
14:08
Page 68
User-focused architecture With the building's final user firmly at the forefront of their minds, Braunschweig's Ahad Architekten have spent the past 14 years cementing their position as one of northern Germany's leading architectural practices. TEXT: EMMIE COLLINGE | PHOTOS: AHAD / ADRIAN SCHULZ
As one of the partners of the intimate architectural office based in Braunschweig, Katja Ahad explains that they take a similar approach to all their building commissions: "We evaluate our own experience as well as imagining what life in a building will be like. Part of the creativity results in anticipating every detail.� For one of the city's latest kindergartens the architects spoke to the staff about their
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Ahad & Ahad
needs. Often conducting yet further research, the design team is firmly committed
to creating sustainable buildings that exceed expectations. "We believe we owe the benefit of experience and improvement to future users." Similar in-depth interviews took place during the design process for Volkswagen's newest centre for development, as the architects held discussions and workshops prior to embarking on construction to gain a full understanding of the users' wishes. In the kindergarten, expansive south-eastward facing windows and skylights allow for generous natural light. Clear, comprehensive divisions between the classrooms and common areas are formed with a heart-warming simplicity. With its pastel green exterior and iconic terraced houses concept, the competition-winning design of the kinder-