The Cradle
Sustainable timber hybrid office with responsive facade.
Project Details
Situated in Düsseldorf's MedienHafen, The Cradle stands as the city's first timber-hybrid office structure, embodying a commitment to sustainable and circular building practices. The design integrates a wooden façade composed of V-shaped glulam elements, forming a rhombic pattern that not only defines the building's aesthetic but also contributes to its structural integrity and environmental performance.
Central to the project was the implementation of a parametric design approach. I developed a script that analyzes solar trajectories specific to the site's latitude and orientation. This analysis informed the precise angling of the façade's wooden elements, balancing optimal views out to the harbour with effective self-shading. The result is a dynamic façade that responds to environmental conditions, reducing solar gain and enhancing occupant comfort.
The building's construction emphasizes material health and recyclability. Components are designed for disassembly, allowing materials to be reclaimed and reused at the end of the building's life cycle. This approach aligns with the Cradle-to-Cradle® philosophy, aiming to minimize waste and promote resource efficiency.
The Cradle has been recognized for its innovative design and sustainability, receiving accolades such as the ICONIC AWARD: Innovative Architecture and the MIPIM/The Architectural Review Future Project Award.
Image credit: HPP Architekten
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