unihub

In response to the need for a space that meets the contemporary developmental goals of the University of Neuchâtel, we paradoxically propose a return to the source. The Gaia building, like its mythological namesake, seeks to anticipate the future.

Just as Gaia emerged from Chaos, we too stand at a historical crossroads where returning to our roots seems to be the only viable path forward. The project consciously embraces timber construction—both as a responsible choice for the future and as a means to achieve a minimal carbon footprint during both construction and operation. In the same spirit, the building’s spatial grid and functional layout are designed for adaptability. Thanks to its modularity, Gaia can respond flexibly to the diverse and evolving needs of a university environment.

The material choices and natural ventilation strategies foster a microclimate that supports learning and modern challenges, offering users a tangible sense of health and well-being within the space.

The functional layout is designed for intuitive navigation—users can orient themselves effortlessly and reach their destination without confusion. At the heart of the building lies an adaptable lecture hall and the "green lungs" of Gaia—a glazed internal courtyard. Circulation is further supported by a continuous covered terrace that wraps around the building, complemented on the lake-facing side by a café terrace.

Gaia fully responds to the spatial and functional requirements set out in the competition brief, while offering high-quality internal communication, intuitive flow, and full accessibility for people with disabilities.