Extension of Laerchenplatz Alpenstrasse

A seamless integration of sports science and medicine in a forest clearing. The Extension of Laerchenplatz Alpenstrasse in Magglingen the seamless integration of architecture with its natural surroundings. Designed by Kim Strebel Architekten, the building serves as a new home for the Eidgenoessische Hochschule für Sport Magglingen, a center dedicated to sports science and medicine. Embedded in the gently flowing topography, the structure respects the existing landscape, preserving the prominent views from the Laerchenplatz to the north-east. The building is accessible through a generous external staircase that connects the Alpenstrasse level with the higher Laerchenplatz sports ground, ensuring that the building remains open and accessible to the public, avoiding any institutional seclusion. The architectural expression is defined by a two-story wooden structure that rises above a glass base. The building's volume is punctuated by two courtyards, providing natural light and external views. The functional arrangement is optimized with sports physiotherapy and sports medicine on the ground floor, performance diagnostics on the first floor, and offices on the second floor. The basement houses a flexible auditorium and a running track. Constructed primarily in solid materials, the building features two-story timber halls connected to the main structure. The vertical timber façade, with regularly spaced pilaster strips, mediates between the spacious halls and smaller rooms, while the natural hues of wood and concrete dominate the interior.

Design Highlights

Two-story wooden structure above a glass level Integration with the natural topography and forest clearing Public accessibility through a connecting external staircase Two courtyards for natural lighting and views Flexible internal layout with non-load-bearing walls

Key Facts