The Center for Integrative Infectious Disease Research at the University of Heidelberg, located in the Theoretikum complex, which was built in the 1960s, seamlessly integrates itself into the campus fabric with appropriate volumes and forms, and becomes a landmark with a distinctive architectural image. It's designed not only to meet the specialized needs of the S2 and S3 labs through efficient layout but also to establish a dialogue between architecture and landscape through its unique façade.

The CIID is an advanced research institute focused on molecular biology, cell biology, and immunology. Its primary goal is to analyze the mechanisms of pathogens to improve the treatment and prevention of human diseases.

The CIID building can be considered a structural extension and a valuable supplement to the Theoretikum, an academic complex built in the 1960s. It not only strengthens the connections between surrounding institutes as an addition to this academic cluster, but also collaborates with them to create one of the most advanced basic research complexes for infectiology in Germany.

Like the final piece of a puzzle, the building seamlessly integrates into the existing complex, where its east, west, and north sides are surrounded by a series of institutes, while the south side faces a Botanical Garden.

This unique location offers dual implications for the design. On one hand, the new building harmonizes with the existing structures in terms of scale and form, blending into the overall fabric and texture and fostering interdisciplinary conversations. On the other hand, it features distinct volumes and façades, establishing itself as an independent landmark within the campus.

The CIID building resembles a “cornerstone” within the Theoretikum complex. Its dark gray walls impart a sense of stability, while the glass entrance provides a touch of lightness. Meanwhile, the variously sized windows establish visual connections between the indoor and outdoor spaces, facilitating interaction with the natural landscape.

The CIID building houses various research functions, including experimentation, cultivation, observation, imaging, as well as corresponding auxiliary facilities and offices.

A central corridor has been designed to efficiently separate different functional areas, especially to ensure the isolation and safety of the experimental areas. The experimental area is on the north, where there’s quieter and more private environment, while the office area is on the south, offering a panoramic view of the botanical garden.

The corridor also serves as the core space and features a partially elevated and skylight design, creating a vertically connected public space.

Considering the experimental areas, the 5-story building is well-organized vertically as well.

The underground floor is for a S3 lab and culturing areas; the first floor is for microscopic observation and imaging areas; the second to fourth floors are standard floors, equipped with S2 labs and related auxiliary rooms; and the fifth floor serves as the building technology center, housing building systems, particularly the fresh air system required for the lab.

As for details within the labs, the design accounts for the standardized and modular experimental equipment and systems, as well as prioritizes flexibility to accommodate the future development. Some interior spaces feature wooden materials and dark gray furniture, enhancing a comfortable atmosphere.

The façade is designed to emphasize the internal functions from another perspective.

On the northern façade, the windows form horizontal stripes, which is fixed to meet the safety requirements for the labs, while also allowing the scenery of the internal courtyard to be introduced into the interior.

Unlike the logically rigorousness for northern area, the southern office area offers a feeling that is more open and relaxed. The design is inspired by the plant grids in the botanical garden, creating various types of grid windows on the south façade, forming a diverse visual relationship and integrating the nature into the daily office life.

Windows on the southern façade are designed to be partially opened and equiped with louvers for shading and anti-glare. These windows, whether narrow or wide, together create a sense of order and dynamics, contributing to the variation in the facade's rhythm. However, a particularly striking feature is the large protruding window spanning from the third to the fourth story. This window offers a perfect framed view from the meeting room inside to the botanical garden and stands out as the most eye-catching element.