Ehrenfels

Guiding principle of the design is to insert the intervention sensitively into the existing structure. The concept evolves from the routines of the main user group, the hikers. A series of interventions that frame one’s experience of the new building, the ruins and its surroundings, is defined by the wanderer’s path.

In place of the former gatehouse, a new entrance building creates a point of arrival. Accommodated within the remains of the old walls, the first sight of the castle stays almost unchanged. Through this building and via the former main entrance, the hiker enters the interior of the ruin. By setting up a single central wall, a room is created that forms three areas, referencing and complementing the existing tripartite. The existing height differences of the original levels are transferred to the new roofscape, which additionally structures the room.\nIn the foyer, the skylight is reminiscent of the former courtyard. It forms references to the castle towers and welcomes the wanderer. Via the extant old staircase to the south, the visitor reaches the raised guest hall, where a long table invites to dine, converse or enjoy a game. The hall opens to the west, over a new staircase, up to a new level into the bar. Continuing the circular route, the hiker can visit the observation towers via the northern stairs and go back down to the foyer. In its center, there is an imposing existing archway above a staircase leading down to the basement of the castle.\nFrom there, a new staircase leads down into the former moat. Thus, the wanderer continues west, in the direction of the setting sun, to retreat to the hostel. This transition between community and seclusion is staged by a narrow path, oriented by incident natural light and occasional views of the landscape. The hostel rooms are lined up along the outer wall, directed southwest. Where the existing structure requires it, the corridor opens to a large window, framing the scenery - A moment of contemplation. When desired, the wanderer may withdraw completely to his chamber – a place to reflect in simplicity. The small room impressively brings to mind the location inside the outer enclosure through natural indirect lighting. Leaving in the morning, the wanderer passes a small kitchen on the way through the outer bailey. Here, he can prepare breakfast, and then continue on his path towards the rising sun.