This imposing structure before you is the Andreas-Schubert-Bau. It’s more than just a building. It’s a testament to Dresden’s rich history and the unwavering pursuit of knowledge.
The Andreas-Schubert-Bau stands as a symbol of Dresden’s commitment to scientific advancement. Built between 1956 and 1961 it was originally intended for the Faculty of Nuclear Technology. Nuclear energy was seen as the future technology. The buildings were designed accordingly. However only part of the ambitious construction program was completed. The Faculty was dissolved in 1964. Today the Institute for Nuclear and Particle Physics is just one of its occupants.
The Andreas-Schubert-Bau’s design is striking. A tall grid facade with uniformly designed rows of windows defines this seven-story building. Its steel-reinforced concrete skeletal construction is evident in the horizontal and vertical concrete supports and beams. This skeletal framework was filled with prefabricated concrete components. The construction method is emphasized by the color differentiation of the materials.
A smaller lecture hall building with two lecture halls is recessed on the west side of the main building. This structure is slightly offset to the south creating a bend in the building axis. Unlike the main building the lecture hall is vertically divided by pilasters. The entrance area stands out with its shell-shaped canopy and the steel and glass facade above.
The forecourt was designed by Werner Bauch. It features a pond. Since 1964 it has integrated the animal sculpture “Cranes” by Dresden artist Werner Scheffel. This sculpture adds a touch of artistic flair to the scientific setting of the Andreas-Schubert-Bau.
The building’s namesake Johann Andreas Schubert was a remarkable individual. Born into poverty he found a better life with a foster family in Leipzig. After attending the building school at the Dresden Academy of Art and completing an internship he became a teacher of accounting. He was appointed Professor in 1832 and became a leading figure in the field of mechanical engineering. In Dresden-Übigau he founded a mechanical engineering plant. This plant built the first German steam locomotive “Saxonia” and the first Saxon Elbe steamer. He later taught street railway and bridge construction. He was instrumental in the upgrading of the Technical Education Institution to the Royal Saxon Polytechnic School in 1851.
The Andreas-Schubert-Bau continues to serve the academic community. It’s a reminder that even as scientific fields shift and evolve the enduring pursuit of knowledge remains at the forefront of Dresden’s identity. As you stand here you are standing in the heart of this ongoing story.