Designed as a joint research facility for the Fraunhofer Institutes SCAI and IAIS, the building will bring together SCAI’s Bonn branch and new research activities from both institutes under one roof. Research will focus on machine learning algorithms, large-scale AI models, quantum computing, and energy-efficient high-performance computing. By adding the new center, Fraunhofer is expected to further strengthen Bonn as a center for applied AI research and computational science.

Funding requirements total 56 million euros for construction and equipment. Plans provide 2,424 square meters of usable space for 180 employees, featuring flexible offices, hybrid coworking areas, and an 800-square-meter data center. Project leaders target Silver certification under Germany’s Sustainable Building Assessment System and compliance with Energy Efficiency Class 40 standards.

Architecturally, the winning design is based on a clear separation of functions. The data center and office areas will be housed in two distinct building sections. Located on Reinhard-Selten-Strasse, the shorter structure will contain the data center. A longer office wing will be connected behind it. This layout creates a forecourt that opens the entrance toward the street and integrates the building into the campus environment.

The jury, chaired by Munich architect Prof. Ludwig Wappner, met in Bonn on May 22. The panel, consisting of experts in architecture, planning, and construction, unanimously awarded first place to Henn’s design by a vote of 11 to 0. The urban design was praised for opening the building toward Reinhard-Selten-Strasse, providing a clear street presence, and integrating the structure into the campus. Jurors also highlighted the building’s clear internal organization.

Public areas, offices, and internal work zones are clearly separated. Circulation routes and stairwells are located in the section connecting the data center and office wing.

BE Baumschlager Eberle from Berlin achieved second prize, and Schulz & Schulz from Leipzig earned third. The jury awarded honorable mentions to gmp and BHVT, both based in Berlin. Twenty firms entered the restricted, single-stage competition, submitting sixteen designs.

Preliminary and design planning will begin in August 2026. Through NG-HPDAC, Fraunhofer aims to strengthen the connection between research in AI, data analytics, and high-performance computing and their practical applications. The center will offer substantial benefits, supporting companies and organizations seeking to implement data-driven processes, AI systems, and energy-efficient computing methods to increase competitiveness, innovation, and resource efficiency.