The I-complex at Ruhr University Bochum was originally constructed in 1965 serving for the university's engineering colleges. Between 2009 and 2018, Gerber Architekten initiated a comprehensive renovation and upgrade of the IA, IB, and IC complex. The IC complex, recognized as an architectural heritage, underwent a thorough renovation of its façade and internal core, based on the restoration of historical buildings. In contrast, the IA/IB complex were demolished and rebuilt due to the poor condition of the original structures. These three buildings have been revitalized in distinct ways, but all contributing to the reshaping of Ruhr University Bochum's campus image for future research.

The Ruhr University Bochum (RUB) in Bochum, Germany, was established in 1965. The campus is in a meticulously unified and clearly organized plan, where buildings are categorized by discipline, forming four major areas: medicine, natural sciences, humanities, and engineering. The I-complex, situated in the north of the campus, comprises the oldest structures and serves as the engineering colleges district, which consequently made it the primary focus for renovation.

The goal of renovating the IC complex was to preserve the spatial and architectural features of the original structure while creating a functional, well-equipped, and high-quality learning and research environment for approximately 5,000 students and scientists. Thus, the design of the renovation focuses on reshaping of the relationship between the building's "shell" and "core."

On the one hand, the "shell" maintains the original building's style, incorporating windows and escape balconies as key elements. The design is transformed through the use of alternating aluminum plates and steel railings, creating a rhythmic facade. Additionally, new balconies are added to aid in shading and facade cleaning.

Simultaneously, two three-story glass areas are introduced on the east and west facades, breaking the monotony of the original facade and maximizing the building's natural views from within.

On the other hand, the "core" is renovated for additional functional spaces, including two large lecture halls with 340 seats, 57 laboratories, and numerous seminar rooms and offices.

As a comprehensive teaching building shared by colleges of Mechanical Engineering, Civil Engineering, and Environmental Engineering, the design creates a highly efficient and flexible space that meets the demands of professional research and the installation of large-scale technical equipment across various disciplines, while providing necessary adjustment, separation, and transition spaces, with the consideration of the differences in research requirements across disciplines.

Furthermore, the design restructures the internal circulation, aiming to integrate and simplify the circulation and functional layout as much as possible.

Along the north-south axis, the core library, dean's office, and administrative area are systematically connected, while the student station, dining area, and seminar rooms are arranged along the perimeter to maximize natural lighting and ventilation, enhancing the quality of the internal space.

Along the east-west axis, three-story glass corridors are designed to connect IB and ID, fostering communication between different buildings and creating a visual connection between the building and the inner courtyard.

不同于IC教学楼的翻新改造，IA、IB教学楼由于受污染严重，不得不采用了“重建”的建筑振兴策略。设计与建筑遗产管理部门密切协调，参照原建筑对两座大楼进行了拆除重建，以呼应波鸿鲁尔大学校园原有的建筑形式以及外观特色。

Different from the renovation of the IC complex, the IA/IB complex had to adopt the strategy of "reconstruction" due to serious pollution. In close coordination with the architectural heritage management department, these two buildings were demolished and rebuilt in reference to the original buildings to echo the original form and exterior features of the RUB campus.

On the facade, the design language for the new buildings aligns with the original IA and IB, while referencing the renovated IC. This integration ensures a harmonious appearance within the I-complex, contributing to a complete and unified campus image.

Regarding internal space, areas with high foot traffic, such as lecture halls, student union areas, activity rooms, and service areas, are situated in the core area of the lower floors, while numerous laboratories, offices, teaching rooms, and student workplaces are located on the upper floors, optimizing space usage.

Additionally, considering that the IA and IB house the colleges of Earth Sciences, Mathematics, and Psychology, the layout has been optimally adjusted based on the teaching area, achieving a clear separation between the disciplines.

It's important to note that the new IA/IB complex is designed to internally connect the entire northern surroundings of the I-complex.

The design utilizes the east-west main passageway to traverse IA/IB and connect IC, incorporating accessibility and communication between the building and the inner courtyard. Additionally, an open stairwell design within the building fosters a more intuitive visual connection, encouraging across levels communication.

These two new buildings are designed under the emphasis on providing spaces where people are willing to enjoy spending time. The design not only clearly expresses the functional relationship between the interior and exterior space, but also contributes to enhancing the campus and even the city landscape.