With the construction of the new GK17 office and laboratory building, we are continuing the development of the Tübingen-Reutlingen Technology Park in a consistent and considered way. Following TTR GK09 (2013) and TTR GK13 (2017), the new building on Gerhard-Kindler-Straße forms the third “pearl” in an architectural sequence we refer to internally as a string of pearls. Like its predecessors, GK17 follows a clear structural logic that combines economically usable, flexibly divisible rental units with a high spatial quality. Circulation plays a central role in this concept, creating spatially engaging access areas that use light, proportion and movement to establish identity and give each “pearl” its own distinct character.
The aim was to create compact, flexible and high-quality rental spaces for office and laboratory use, complemented by carefully designed communal areas. At the same time, the building has been designed with long-term successful lettability in mind – in line with the aspirations of the client, Technologiepark Tübingen-Reutlingen GmbH (TTR).
The structure is organised around a striking central circulation zone, with a stair configuration in the shape of a figure eight forming its spatial core. A skylight brings daylight deep into the centre of the building, creating a welcoming atmosphere that encourages movement and promotes spontaneous encounters. In doing so, the building ties in with the overarching concept of the technology park, which is built around short distances that foster knowledge transfer and make exchange a part of everyday life.
Designed for maximum flexibility, the floor plans allow for rental units starting at around 80 m², which can be combined or used individually – ideal for growing start-ups and technology-oriented enterprises.
The external envelope features a light-coloured, textured render finish, punctuated by dark horizontal bands of profiled aluminium panels between the windows. Above the main entrance, the upper floors slightly cantilever, producing a subtle stepped effect and a gentle “inward pull” as one enters. The single-storey entrance zone leads directly into the vertically extending, prominent staircase, whose grey, rough-rendered figure-eight geometry with its distinctive circular porthole windows is already discernible as a standalone element in the façade.
From an energy perspective, GK17 relies on the use of ambient heat via heat pumps, supported by a compact building form and a high-performance envelope. The result is a sustainable concept that balances economic efficiency with long-term durability.
With TTR GK17, the technology park gains another high-quality addition: flexible, functional, and generating a sense of identity.
