This paper is aimed at discussing the Autostadt roof which was designed by the German firm Graft. It is placed over one of the service pavilion showcased by Volkswagen. This design resembles a leaf that is placed over the landscape1 (“Organically shaped autostadt roof”).
To a great extent, it represents the most modern trends in architecture. Much attention should be paid to such attributes as increased functional utility, sustainability, innovative construction principles, and integration into the natural and artificial landscape (Organically shaped autostadt roof).
These are the main qualities that should be examined more closely in this essay. To a great extent, this work can be used as an example by other exterior designers.
There are several reasons why this work has been selected. First of all, one can speak about the unique shape of this structure. It is anchored at only two points due to the use of the static principle (“Organically shaped autostadt roof”). Yet, the first impression is that this construction will eventually lose its balance.
This visual quality is also important for the evaluation of this roof. In turn, there are practically no obstacles that limit the movement of drivers or people who want to enter the pavilion2. This innovative decision of engineers and designers is one of the details that attract the attention of a viewer.
In many cases, the roofs in pavilions are restrictive. However, this work deviates from the established pattern. This is one of the reasons why it can be distinguished among other architectural works located at the Autostadt.
Furthermore, one can speak about the utility of this architectural design. On the one hand, it effectively protects the vehicles from direct sunlight or rain (“Autostadt Roof and Service Pavilion by Graft Architects”). This protection is of great importance to people who will attend this pavilion.
However, at the same time, this structure makes it possible to reduce the use of electricity (Autostadt Roof and Service Pavilion by Graft Architects). In other words, this architectural work is made sustainable.
This is another aspect that should be considered by architects who should remember that the efficient use of energy is vital for many organizations, including Volkswagen or other organizations. This is one of the main attributes of this architectural design. This principle is applied to other constructions located at the Autostadt.
Moreover, one should mention that this roof is organically incorporated into the landscape. The roof cannot be viewed as another artificial construction which has been designed without any consideration for other buildings or natural sites. The designers of this roof avoided this pitfall. More likely, this roof perfectly fits the Autostadt which is maintained by Volkswagen. This quality increases the aesthetic value of this architectural design.
It should be kept in mind that this work is located on the territory of Autostadt, the museum of Volkswagen. This place is famous for innovative technological or design decisions which are often emulated by others.
On the whole, this discussion indicates that modern architects should take various factors into account. In particular, they should focus on the utility of design, aesthetic value, sustainability, functional utility, and innovation. The work discussed in this paper combines each of these qualities. It exemplifies the most up-to-date trends in the contemporary design. These are the main points that can be made.
Appendixes
Picture 1
(“Autostadt Roof and Service Pavilion by Graft Architects”)
Picture 2
(“Organically shaped autostadt”)
Works Cited
“Autostadt Roof and Service Pavilion by Graft Architects”. Architectism 29 Aug. 2013. Web.
“Organically shaped autostadt roof and service pavilion by graft.” Designboom 16 Sep. 2013. Web.
Footnotes
1 Please, refer to the Appendixes, Picture 1.
2 Picture 2