Two innovative architectural projects from Central Germany have received the prestigious "Nike" Architecture Award, the highest honor bestowed by the Federation of German Architects (BDA). The Andreasgärten housing complex in Erfurt and a transformed kindergarten in Merseburg were recognized during a ceremony held Thursday evening in Erfurt.
The awards ceremony celebrated seven winners across various categories, with the Nike Prize being awarded only once every three years. The recognition represents the pinnacle of architectural achievement in Germany, with nominations coming from regional architectural associations across the country.
The Erfurt Andreasgärten project claimed victory in the "Housing" category, earning praise from the jury for its strategic urban placement in a central location. The development successfully transformed a previously unused vacant lot into a vibrant residential community. Constructed using timber building techniques, the housing quarter was designed by a Dresden-based architectural firm and developed by Johanniter Emergency Services of Saxony-Anhalt and Thuringia.
The jury specifically commended the project's innovative approach to urban development and its contribution to sustainable living practices. The wooden construction method not only represents an environmentally conscious building approach but also creates a unique aesthetic that stands out in the urban landscape.
In the "Dealing with Existing Structures" category, the Campus Kindergarten in Merseburg received recognition for its creative transformation of a former telephone exchange building into a modern childcare facility. Leipzig architect Aline Hielscher led the conversion project, which was commissioned by the Student Services Organization of Halle.
The Merseburg project particularly impressed judges with its ability to house conventional childcare functions within an unconventional industrial building. The transformation demonstrates how adaptive reuse can breathe new life into obsolete infrastructure while serving community needs. The former telecommunications facility now features bright orange windows and doors, creating a welcoming environment for children while preserving the building's industrial character.
The converted kindergarten serves the campus community of Merseburg University of Applied Sciences, providing essential childcare services for students and staff. The project exemplifies successful adaptive reuse, showing how industrial heritage can be preserved while meeting contemporary social needs.
These awards highlight the growing importance of sustainable architecture and adaptive reuse in German urban development. Both projects demonstrate innovative solutions to housing and community facility needs while respecting existing urban fabric and environmental considerations. The recognition at the national level underscores the quality of architectural work being produced in the Central German states of Thuringia and Saxony-Anhalt.
