Wangen Tower

Embedded in the landscape of the West Allgäu, the Wangen Tower is an architectural landmark and pioneering timber construction for the 2024 State Garden Show. The tower is based on research by the IntCDC Cluster of Excellence at the University of Stuttgart and is the first full-height accessible structure to use load-bearing, self-forming timber components. The characteristic shape of the timber structure is an expression of new architecture made from renewable and locally available materials.

The Wangen Tower, located at the State Garden Show in Wangen in Allgäu, is a striking landmark and an accessible observation point. Behind this innovative timber construction is a dedicated team from the University of Stuttgart, led by Achim Menges at the Institute for Computational Design and Construction (ICD) and Jan Knippers at the Institute of Building Structures and Structural Design (ITKE). The tower’s curved, large-format components utilise the shrinkage of wood to shape themselves. This process is inspired by organic phenomena, such as the spruce cone, which responds to changes in humidity by adjusting the shape of its scales. 

The jury recognised the project as an exemplary model for teaching methods of ecological construction. It successfully conveys to both students and the public the potential of innovative approaches at the intersection of research, craftsmanship, and computer-aided design and prefabrication.