Driver assistance systems, including automatic parking, traffic sign recognition and
automatic distance control, are becoming more common in today's cars. The new
'Ausfahrt' at the Autostadt in Wolfsburg offers guests an opportunity to try out these
technical systems in models manufactured by Volkswagen. This helps to ensure safer
driving in road traffic.
GRAFT was commissioned to create a quiet area where the buyer of a new car could
get familiar with all the functions in an almost private atmosphere. The space had to be
protected from rain and direct sunlight, while allowing enough daylight to avoid the
usage of energetically expensive and unnecessary artificial light.
GRAFT developed the idea of a horizontal leaf that protects the landscape underneath
with its organic form. “WES-Landschaftsarchitektur” planned the landscape surrounding
the roof. In the architectural application of this image, it was necessary to produce the
greatest possible lightness: A special static principle allows for the unique roof structure
to be anchored in just two points. It lays in the landscape and defines a clear and
protected room. The planning of the structural framework was done by “Schlaich
Bergmann und Partner”.
The orientation of the roof represents a welcoming gesture through its curvature. The
elegant amorphous geometry of the roof structure forms an evident bridge between top
and bottom, between sky and landscape.
The associated service pavilion fulfills various functions: the customer can ask
questions about his new car, purchase accessories or get information about Autostadt
attractions and activities. As the roof follows the concept of a leaf, the pavilion is
integrated into the architectural landscape and not designed as a separate building.
Basic forms of the roof can be found in the interior architecture.