The former freight yard in Duisburg represented one of the city's most significant development opportunities. With the completion of the new Police and Public Administration University of Applied Sciences (HSVP), this urban quarter has reached its full potential. The new building, paired with the HSVP structure across the street—completed in 2022—creates a distinctive architectural landmark.

Separated by a street, both buildings were designed by heinlewischer architects following a competitive bidding process commissioned by Aurelis Real Estate. The south-facing facades showcase flowing curved volumes that dialogue with one another, drawing the eye inward toward the quarter's heart. The structures' proportions and ribbon-like facade treatment underscore their visual kinship, while deliberately contrasting materials—aluminum on one facade, clinker brick on the other—assert each building's individual character. The six- and five-story volumes appear nearly identical thanks to the sloping terrain, yet the carefully calibrated massing prevents any sense of density. Instead, the spacing between them creates compelling spatial interplay. Security-critical elements like emergency exits have been discreetly integrated as concealed doors, while ventilation openings and windows beyond the ribbon facade employ perforated materials that sit seamlessly within the architectural expression.

Internally, both buildings showcase efficient, rational floor plans oriented by a circular layout and clear wayfinding system. Strategic breaks in the corridor walls—featuring recessed niches, shallow spaces, and glass partitions—flood the interiors with natural light. The design achieved DGNB Gold certification for sustainability. An array of photovoltaic panels crowns the roof alongside an air-cooled chiller unit supplying cold water for climate control and ventilation. District heating provides the primary heating source, with a multi-split system managing heat dissipation in server and IT distribution areas.

www.heinlewischer.de

Photography:

Patrick Musialek

(Featured in CUBE Cologne Ruhr Area 03|25)