Spatial steel framework, torus with elliptical base
Flush glass layer
Spans: longitudinal 135 m, transverse 40 m
Time: 1998 - 1999
Building costs: c. 13 mill. EUR
Our scope: structural engineering
Easy to see through.
The fascination of successful steel and glass buildings lies in their transparency. That’s true in two senses: the transparency of the glass as a surface-sealing material on the one hand, and on the other hand the general transparency of the design language of steel.
A total of 15 cross-frames form the main structural elements whose central rod represents the backbone of the construction.Its cross-section is designed to withstand both torsional moments and normal forces. For reinforcement, there is a truss below and a Vierendeel truss on top. The cross-frames have a gap of nine metres and are slightly tilted towards a central point. They are joined together by three longitudinal girders and reinforced. The flush glass layer closes off the space on the inside of the spatial steelwork structure.
The Glass Hall rises from the level of the long-distance railway station’s overall roof. Its geometric shape describes the section of a torus with an elliptical base. All constructional elements are oriented around this geometry and are consequently experiential and transparent.