MUNICH OLYMPICS

CONCEPT | 2010

For maximum usage both during and after the Olympics, the pressing design strategy for the site was a mix of physical fitness as well as socio-oncology sustainability. Developed by a solar and wind study, the dynamic building form guarantees optimization of wind flow and maximizes the natural ventilation of the Olympic village. The orientation of the buildings allow for an optimal alignment for the dwellings to be connected with one of the seven individual semi-public parks. The park spaces provide area for recreation, social interaction, and physical fitness.

The seven parks have individual identity and give the residents their "own" garden. Transparency of the building stairwells and ramps allows for a barrier free interior-exterior communication. The combination of sport and recreation is dependent upon networking between public and semi-public paths and outdoor rooms, which guarantees and promotes an intercultural and inter-generational community.

The height of the building was deliberately maintained at five stories to promote the use of stairs as an active building experience. The Olympic village has two ice rinks, the opportunity for cross-country skiing, a 750-meter and 1,000 meter long athletic track on the building roof which is de-iced by the solar energy system. In summer, a "fitness trail", climbing wall and skateboard facility are operational for resident use; the fitness center and indoor sports hall are usable all year round.

The energy plan utilizes solar energy in various passive energy applications. The solar energy is used at various places, such as a photovoltaic system that simultaneously shades a large part of the building. A cable-net structure, whose form traces the courtyards, has a thin film application of photovoltaics. The photovoltaic fields are arranged so that in summer the windows of the residential areas are shaded, and in winter the heat energy of the sun enters the common spaces. Separate, individually controlled and largely internal shading systems guarantee a glare-free environment. In addition, solar energy is used by solar thermal collectors (water). They are arranged atop the roof of the residential building under the running tracks so there is not only energy absorbed, but the solar-induced warming of the water simultaneously de-ices the snow on the tracks in winter.