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PORTFOLIO

DARIUS FRESE

ARCHITECTURE

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A RED DOT


Bachelorthesis

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CULTURAL FORUM


Gänsemarkt, Hamburg

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NOLTE 2030


Lüneburg

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INTERVENTION

Gerhart-Hauptmann-Platz,

Hamburg

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BAAKENHUB


HafenCity,

Hamburg

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ARTIST STUDIO


A RED DOT

My vision was to create a space that developed a strong identity and not only preserved but also expanded its core function as a vibrant interface within the public realm. I explored ways to integrate critical infrastructure harmoniously into the surroundings without compromising essential functions. This interface arose at a point where movement and gathering intersected, becoming a place for exchange, connection, and interaction. In this dynamic environment, different actors came together: visitors who enlivened economic aspects through their presence and needs, and cultural initiatives that enriched the space with diversity and creativity. As well as social communities that strengthen

the social fabric through their interactions and relationships. These actors should have the opportunity to shape and utilize the space according to their individual needs, creating a lively and diverse place. My design lays the foundation for this vision by slowing down the crossing of the interface and making the space around the existing building more experiential. This is achieved through various design measures that structure the space while offering openness and flexibility. The integration of gathering areas, cultural installations, and social meeting points encourages interaction and lingering, while thoughtful paths and transitions guide movement through the space harmoniously.

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This place should create an atmosphere of arrival and lingering, which is both calming and stimulating. Visitors should feel secure and welcome while being inspired by the diversity and vibrancy of the space. The viewpoints offer moments of reflection and wonder, creating a connection to the surroundings without the need for direct entry. The central meeting point radiates an inviting warmth, fostering community by serving as a lively space for exchange. The flexible event area pulses with energy and creativity, animated by concerts, theater performances, lectures, or flea markets. 

This variety encourages interaction and enriches the communal experience. The gentle transition between sand and solid ground conveys a harmonious connection and facilitates a pleasant farewell to the beach. Cozy corners and niches invite lingering and relaxation, providing tranquility and contemplation as a contrast to the liveliness of the central areas. Despite challenges posed by crowded bike racks and trash bins, the atmosphere should remain positive and inviting, supported by a design that minimizes these problem areas. Visual anchor points and aesthetic elements

give the place a cultural dimension and strengthen the emotional bond people have with it. Overall, the site offers a harmonious balance between calm and activity, community and individual experience, characterized by a sense of belonging and joy in the shared use and shaping of the space.

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My journey into the world of architecture began with a profound interest in the connection between people and the built environment. Throughout my studies, I came to understand that architecture transcends the mere creation of buildings; it embodies the art of crafting living spaces that not only bring people together but also inspire them. In my designs, I prioritize the pursuit of openness, connection, and sustainability, integrating these values into every project. The joy of exploration and analysis serves as a driving force in my creative process, pushing me to create extraordinary and meaningful architecture.

I believe that the responsibility for creating sustainable buildings and concepts is essential, as architecture has a long-term impact on both the environment and the lives of individuals within it. My projects are characterized by a spirit of curiosity and exploration, motivating me to investigate new ideas and innovative approaches thoroughly. I am dedicated to fully exploring the potential of every location, seeking to extract its best attributes and create a lasting benefit for society as a whole. Through this commitment, I aim to contribute to a future where architecture fosters community, sustainability, and creativity.

DISCLOSE &                        CONNECT

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CULTURAL FORUM

New construction of a 'Cultural House' at Gänsemarkt in Hamburg.

The 'Cultural House' places dialogue at its core, aiming to inspire and enrich. Therefore, the mediation and event spaces hold the greatest significance within the building alongside the exhibition area. The intention is to create a meeting place that can be used not only in an artistic context but also as a platform for exchange, discussions, lectures, workshops, and events.

In addition to artists, musicians, authors, and scholars, everyone will have the opportunity to showcase their work and share their messages through an 'Open Stage.' This space aims to foster enriching dialogues, constructive discussions, and critique. A distinctive architectural element is the circular opening in the ceilings that extends from the central event space on the ground floor throughout the building, promoting connection and active exchange between the floors. This ensures a continuous dialogue among the levels. The open structure and glass facade of the building integrate the surroundings, encouraging participation in the happenings. The rough concrete evokes the idea of a source penetrating through coarse sediments

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THE NOLTE VILLAGE

The design project "Nolte 2030" is located in the eastern part of Lüneburg, along a major traffic axis leading from the city center to the surrounding area. The existing establishment, which consists solely of a gastronomy business with its own brewery and distillery, aims to lay the foundation for a new cultural meeting place with diverse gastronomic and cultural offerings for young and old by 2030, utilizing new architectural approaches.

A special focus on regionality and sustainability will guide the project's implementation.

Architecturally, this project is inspired by the structure of a classic village. The various buildings share similar external forms and materials but adapt to their functions, creating a symbiosis architecturally and conceptually. The chosen brick façade references existing structures while incorporating modern character through construction details.

The design features a gabled roof form that runs throughout. The surrounding buildings and the typical forms of the region are echoed in the design.

FORM AND FUNCTION

In 1373, the property of what would later become Gänsemarkt was leased by the Senate and developed around 1600 (hamburg.de). In 1655, the square was named Forum Anserum (Latin for goose, Anser = goose). Since 1709, it has been called "Gänsemarkt." There are two theories regarding the name: one suggests that the property owner Ambrosius Gosen (Low German Goos = goose) was the namesake, while the other theory posits that geese were driven from there to the Dammtor (hamburg). The historical function of Gänsemarkt as a traffic junction has shaped its distinctive triangular appearance for centuries, traceable back to the 16th century.

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As early as the 17th century, Gänsemarkt can be identified as a central public square in its current form and dimensions. In 1883, a tram line was established, sharing public space with horse-drawn vehicles and pedestrians. In the post-war period, the square transformed into a central meeting point and parking area. By the end of the 1980s, the square was redesigned into a purely pedestrian area, which still exists today. Gänsemarkt continues to serve as an important traffic connection between Hamburg's city center and other districts (Otto Wulff BID-Gesellschaft mbH).

New materials like wood and steel contrast with existing structures, introducing modern approaches to the project. The structural design also revisits established forms. The classic gable roof shape is formed both by traditional rafter roofs and by three-joint frame constructions.

"Nolte 2030" is a place that offers something new with every visit. Winding pathways guide visitors across the property, constantly inviting them to experience the atmosphere and the people anew, influenced by changing events. These pathways not only connect different areas but also create a sense of exploration and discovery for everyone who comes.

In keeping with the classic structure of a village, all buildings exist in symbiosis with one another. Architectural elements distinguish them by function while simultaneously creating new relationships that lead visitors throughout the entire site. This interconnectedness fosters a sense of community and encourages social interaction among all who gather here.

To enhance the existing sustainability approach, the theme is also integrated into the architecture. Through targeted material choices and new technical installations, the guiding principles of the operation are extended across the entire area, enabling the real realization of a new cultural institution in harmony with nature. This alignment with ecological values ensures that "Nolte 2030" not only serves its immediate community but also contributes positively to the broader environment.

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To ensure a high level of self-sufficiency, the aspect of sustainability is also taken into account in the building services. Photovoltaic systems installed on the roofs of the workshop, café, and tiny houses will provide their own electricity and heat, supporting energy needs. A greywater system collects wastewater from the individual buildings and allows for its reuse in toilet flushing, cleaning purposes, irrigation of green areas, and fire protection systems after undergoing specific filtration through two tanks. Rainwater can also be integrated into this system to prevent loss and support usage. To avoid long-distance transport of hot water due to the size of the property, decentralized instantaneous water heaters will be installed at each location to provide hot water on demand. The heating systems will also be installed locally in the individual buildings. To meet the low heating demand of these compact structures, discreet infrared heaters will be set up, creating comfortable spaces on cold days. These heaters can be easily installed and operated with a simple power connection.

SUSTAINABILITY

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BAAKENHUB

BREAKING FREE


Closed off – growing – breaking through – free
Nature is held back by old structural elements, leaving little room to thrive. Now, as most of these structures have outlived their usefulness, what has long been hidden is re-emerging. Sheet piling deteriorates as new habitats form, while asphalt surfaces and concrete slabs become brittle, cracking, and allowing roots to break through. The natural process of decay is already underway, with the intention of creating something new from it!

FOR PRACTICES ON - IN - THE WATER


THE DIVISION BETWEEN WATER AND LAND / PORT AND CITY IS BROKEN BY THE PRACTICES OF THE PLACE. THE ZONES SINK IN ONE AND FLOOD THE OTHER.

A THIRD ZONE EMERGES.

SILTATION


The expansion of a zone in relation to another creates an overlap. We first observed this at shallow edges near the sheet piling. Soil, moss, and emerging grasses carried by the wind across the flat concrete landscape accumulate against a roughly 4 cm high edge, forming small patches of nature in places where nothing else can grow. When applied on a larger scale, the principle of siltation is exemplified by Baakenhöft. The Elbe current washes increasing amounts of silt into the harbor basin, leading to the formation of new habitats and transitions.

FLOODING


One zone overlays another, deforming it and creating an overlap. Existing structures, such as the sheet piling, flood protection gates, and asphalt, were intended to shield the area from increasing water influences. However, it became evident that water collects at many points after floods or heavy rain and cannot drain away. This brings back the practice of "breaking out," which actively challenges the existing sealing from both sides. Allowing water to seep into the ground nourishes nature and facilitates its emergence, and vice versa.

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EXPLORE

&

STUDY

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1850: The harbor was established as a main hub in the city. The practices of the city and harbor interacted with each other.

1900: The harbor expanded further to the east and south. The Baakenhöft became part of the harbor area.

2000: The harbor was completely relocated to the south. The practices of the city and harbor became separated. The Baakenhöft transitioned into an urban area.

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