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The project started as a competition for the redevelopment of the ?Zentralplatz?, the main square in Koblenz. The program included approximately 20,000 m² of retail space, more space for cultural and tourism purposes and an urban square of 6.000 m².
Courtesy of Benthem Crouwel Architects – Photographs : Jens Kirchner
The complete program is split into two volumes, with the Zentralplatz in between. The separation of functions allows for two autonomous and highly functional buildings, which can develop long-term and independently. The two buildings and the square create an urban ensemble. Because of the precise positioning of the buildings and their outline, the pedestrian flows, which make the central square a public setting, are organized in an effective and logical way. The two buildings are complemented and strengthened in their urban and architectural implementation by each other?s background. Courtesy of Benthem Crouwel Architects – Photographs : Jens Kirchner
The Kulturbau houses the public library, the Mittelrhein Museum and the tourist information of Koblenz. The combination of these different cultural institutions offers the chance to exploit the synergies between the various institutions.
Courtesy of Benthem Crouwel Architects – Photographs : Jens Kirchner

The cultural building stands solitary in the new central square. Its outline is created naturally by the positioning in the “...