Friendly, active, natural, gruff, precious, rough, strong, clear, strict... material properties and their aesthetical impact are often distilled down to adjectives.

Material properties include physical as well as optical and haptic attributes. The physical features define possible manners of processing and construction. Optical and haptic material properties influence the perception and determine the atmosphere of a place. The design studio works on the correlation of material properties and the search for form. Typical construction, manners of processing and surface treatment of steel, wood, stone, concrete and plastics are objects of investigation. It will be worked with analogue and digital models on different scales. Aesthetical principles for a landscape architectural design in Berlin-Kreuzberg are to be derived from the testing models.

The plot in Kreuzberg (Cuvrystrasse/Köpenicker Strasse) measures 160m x 60m. Its particular features include the elongated layout and the distinct spatial edges. In the north, the area borders on the Spree, in the east stretches of firewall of 22m height. The wall surface is interrupted by yard incisions. The other two sides are enclosed by streets.

The design for the site is to be thoroughly investigated and detailed regarding its spatial impact, its materiality and its constructive appearance. On that point, a three dimensional digital model with real heights is required besides analogue models for both for overview and in detail.

The design provides for a walkable sculpture consisting of two ramps. The sculpture leads over the entire area until the banks of the Spree. On the upper walkway, there are opportunities to sit and enjoy the view on the opean area, the city and the opposite shore. The sculpture allows for sojourning in unusual heights with trees within one’s grasp.