How about a culinary landmark born from architectural vision? We are standing before the Zentralmensa. It is more than just a place to grab a bite between lectures. The Zentralmensa is a testament to innovative design and social consciousness.
The Zentralmensa’s story begins in 1970. The Munich architect Hans Auras won the competition to design a new dining hall. However, construction didn’t start until a decade later. The Zentralmensa finally opened between 1980 and 1985. It replaced the “Alte Mensa”. The Alte Mensa once served as a casino for the former Flakkaserne.
Auras’s design reflects the changing attitudes toward university architecture in West Germany during the 1970s. The Zentralmensa became a pivotal point on campus. It linked older buildings with newer ones. Today, the Zentralmensa stands as a protected monument since 2018.
Notice the unique roof. The Zentralmensa features a striking tent-like roof landscape. This design choice wasn’t accidental. Auras drew inspiration from his mentor, Rolf Gutbrod. Gutbrod collaborated with Frei Otto. Otto was known for lightweight constructions. The roof is made of a zinc-covered wood construction. It rests on concrete supports.
The building blends seamlessly into its surroundings. An artificial, hilly landscape was created specifically for the Zentralmensa. Large windows offer diners views of the greenery. The windows have vertical wooden bars. They resemble Japanese paper walls.
Inside, the Zentralmensa diverges from typical university buildings of its time. The interior design incorporates functional elements into the aesthetic. Openly displayed ventilation pipes and lighting fixtures add to the unique character. The colorful wooden and metal elements contrast with the exposed concrete.
Step inside. You will discover the “Mensaria”. It is a café renovated in 2000. Here, the contrast of materials is striking. Concrete pillars support the wooden ceiling. Walls are clad in sand-lime brick. The open kitchen concept reflects a modern approach. It blends with a cozy atmosphere.
Descend to the main dining hall. A grand staircase leads you to a large hall. The hall continues the theme of contrasting materials. Exposed pipes run across the concrete ceiling. Hubert Bernatzky’s three-meter-high sculpture graces the center.
The Zentralmensa embodies the spirit of its era. It showcases High-Tech architecture. This movement emphasized technology and functional elements. The Zentralmensa’s design reflects a focus on community and social interaction. Auras aimed to create a space that fostered connection. He saw the Zentralmensa as a counterpoint to the university’s rationality.
The Zentralmensa is more than just a place to eat. It is a hub. It connects students and faculty. The Zentralmensa stands as a testament to architectural innovation. It is a social vision, right in the heart of Mainz University. Also you can find vacancies on notice boards at the Zentralmensa. Finding accommodation in Mainz can be challenging, especially at the start of the semester.