COMMUNITY CENTER LAUDATO-SI

Community center built using timber and clay construction methods

The Laudato Si community center in Eberswalde is creating a new place for people to come together. The project combines social, ecological and spiritual aspects in a holistic concept.

Consisting of two buildings connected by a covered entrance area, the center forms an ensemble. The ground floor of the recessed, two-story part of the ensemble contains administrative and group rooms for the church community. The upper floor houses a shared apartment for four Capuchin monks with an adjoining roof terrace and garden.

The street-facing building houses a large community hall with an adjacent participatory kitchen, which can also be used for external events. In the middle of the entrance area, a tree symbolizes creation and life. The calm structure of the wooden facade incorporates elements of monastic architecture.

A combination of wood and clay construction provides the basis for a healthy, recyclable building. The insulation is made from renewable materials.

The wooden facades provide nesting opportunities for birds and insects. Here, sustainability is understood as an active way of life that involves the conscious use of resources, nature and community.