Kiff 2.0 Cultural Center, CH-Aarau
With the construction of the new KIFF 2.0 cultural and concert venue, the Telli neighborhood — right next to the current KIFF, which is housed in a former feed mill — is set to become home to a highly flexible cultural center of excellence for the Canton of Aargau. Characterized in part by large-scale industrial buildings, the immediate surroundings of KIFF appear homogeneous and monotonous. Viewing the contrast between the ordinariness of the site and the outstanding cultural events at KIFF as a source of inspiration, the proposed architecture seeks to engage with the context in a way that both mediates and reinforces it.
Three compact, simple volumes, designed to accommodate the specified spatial program, are held together by a large “hat”-shaped roof. Through this strong iconographic form, the building’s architecture is intended to become part of the identity of the new KIFF 2.0 and, first and foremost, to serve as a place for exchange and engagement. This experience begins in the outdoor area beneath the covered forecourt of the entrance, which serves as both a gathering place and an event venue. The covered spaces situated between the individual volumes are more than mere circulation areas: These layered spaces, proposed in the form of winter gardens, serve as areas for encounters and communication. The staff and users of KIFF 2.0 are encouraged to make these spaces their own and use them as attractive places to relax and work.
The recessed design of the two volumes creates a spacious, covered foyer that serves as a shared entrance to the various event areas and the restaurant, but could also function as an additional, easily accessible event space in its own right. In addition to establishing a clear identity for the building, this configuration allows for an access layout that is both flexible and intuitive. Functional areas included in the spatial program — such as the auditorium gallery, the restaurant, or the band rooms located in the plaza area — can easily be used as separate, temporary event spaces without additional effort, thereby expanding the range and profile of events that can be held simultaneously.
Longitudinal section
Cross-section
Within the three main volumes, the individual functional areas are arranged in horizontal layers. On the ground floor, their linear arrangement reflects the sequence of the event (forecourt – foyer – restrooms/coat check – bar – auditorium) and, by separating the audience from the backstage and delivery areas, ensures that the event runs smoothly. On the upper floors, this arrangement allows for flexible spatial configuration while ensuring easy navigation.
Ground Floor Floor Plan
Upper Floor Floor Plan
To meet the high sound insulation requirements and accommodate the expected intensive use, the facade must ensure a high degree of redundancy and robustness. For this reason, two facade systems are used: on the one hand, a black-stained wood mullion-transom facade; on the other hand, black-oiled sheet pile walls. The latter provide efficient sound insulation — particularly in the low-frequency range — and offer the high mass per unit area required for this purpose.
