2006 - competition entry
grube messel

The Messel Pit, has become a World Heritage Site (WHS) due to the discovery of extensive fossils and associated species, which have been preserved in the unique materials that have been both exposed and excavated from within the Messel Pit.

The idea of materials being exposed within the ground (which enabled the discovery of these fossils), is the generator for the form of the visitor’s centre, where the building has been designed so that it appears to have been exposed from below the ground

The building has been nestled into the existing concrete loading bay structure, to minimise the impact of the new visitors centre on its surrounding. The visitors centre has a grass roof which, when approached from certain directions, minimises the impact of the structure - the only indication of its presence being represented by the glazed walkway and perimeter parapet walls.

The building is basically split into two elements; the buildings, with their associated functions, and the walkway. The building elements are constructed of concrete and will engage with the ground as a more permanent element of the visitors centre. In contrast, the walkway will appear to float above the ground level, emphasizing that visitors on the walkway are observers of the site and as such do not engage with the ground - this is a walkway to inform the occupants of the work and discoveries of the site (they can then engage with the site by going on the guided tour of the Messel Pit).

awards

2006

MSA Design Awards
Joint Winner - Unbuilt / Commercial

MSA Design Awards
Winner - Andy Robson Prize, Jonathan Rogers at Stephenson Bell