Nuremberg's trade fair - central entrance

The Mitte (central) entrance of Nuremberg's trade fair centre was redefined by a 20 m high steel slatted roof measuring 256 by 57 metres. The steel construction of the roof consists of 66 slats which are finally constructed as steel trussed girders. The hollow box girders rest on 12 tapered spun concrete pillars. The space between the slats is filled with ETFE cushions.

The former Brüssel congress hall was demolished and was reconstructed in the northern section of the entrance building on a sculpturally formed concrete platform. The hall is characterized by its mathematically modelled and statically ideal construction heights appearing to hover above the entrance level. The almost 1,500m² floor slab of the hall is supported by five sculptured concrete pillars. The skilful implementation of the structural concept installed constructive joists of ideal static height within the slab between the tapered pillars. Only a thin upper and lower slab was manufactured between the joists, the inside remains hollow to reduce the weight of the building.

Architect
kadawittfeldarchitektur, Aachen

Client
NürnbergMesse GmbH

Gross area
15.500 sqm

Gross volume
250.000 cbm

Award
Finalist Structural Awards 2011