A Critical View: Computer-Generated Events Centre – BMW World in Munich
Architecture is good for sensations, and no other sector of the economy has recognized this better than the car industry. The new BMW distribution centre in Munich stands in a long line of such developments and incorporates a world of automobile dreams. The dramatically staged steel-and-glass showroom is complemented by various spaces for the public, including restaurants, shops, conference halls and even a theatre. Designed by the architect Wolf D. Prix and colleagues from Coop Himmelb(l)au, BMW World seeks to evoke the image of a floating cloud. Some 4,000 tonnes of steel and half a dozen structural engineers’ offices were needed to cover an area the size of St Mark’s Square in Venice with a mighty roof construction borne by only 11 columns. In addition, 14,000 m² of glass and 10,000 m² of curved stainless-steel sheeting were incorporated in the building.
