A unique experimental space is being created here, in which innovations in future-oriented planning and sustainable construction can be researched using temporary, real prototypes.
The prototypes are developed and built in teaching and research projects. Previous research results as well as new processes, materials and methods are proved in practice. New forms of use are implemented. New technologies, construction and production methods are tested.
In the winter semester 2023/24, three seminars/electives dealt with these topics. In "Lab.Hof", Heike Rittler worked with students to develop usage and design concepts for the courtyard, in "Lab.Block" a group of students went into the details of certain building elements with Sebastian Baier and Prof. Heiner Hartmann determined statics and connections with his students.
In the elective subject “HFT.Block 3+4” with Sebastian Baier and his students, an innovative solution for the roof construction of “Block Four” was developed in the summer semester of 2024. In “Wood Joints Reloaded”, led by Sascha Bauer and Daniel Pauli, over 30 students dealt with wood joints and will build a jointly developed wooden pavilion in the inner courtyard.
Block four: The design "Framing" by Martin Abt, Johannes Dunke and Dominik Schall was created in the summer semester 2021 as part of the elective course "building with natural materials" supervised by Prof. Jury Troy. It was the winner of the student competition "Redesign Block 4" organized by the association Freunde der HFT Stuttgart e.V. and the university.
During implementation, the focus is on the use of renewable raw materials, a circular construction, greenery and the planning and partial realization in moderated and supervised student self-construction.
The design is currently being revised and details are being worked out. The construction in modular, completely deconstructable timber construction is expected to take place in spring 2025.
A real laboratory for future-oriented planning and construction with innovative prototypes is being created. These will be developed in teaching and research projects - even beyond the execution period.
The inner courtyard will be an attractive, informative and lively place to stay for everyone.