Jonas Janke & Roberta Jurčić (b+) – New Normality: Working with the Existing – gostujoče predavanje

CV

bplus.xyz (b+) is a collaborative architecture practice that operates at the intersection of theory and practice, using different media and formats. The practice seeks to engage with the contemporary challenges of our time, particularly those related to the social-ecological transformation of existing buildings, offering economically viable solutions.

b+ understands architecture as an open process, and views buildings as part of larger systems that require a systemic approach. The practice sees the given framework of existing buildings and legislation as an active design tool with the potential for transformation. Thus, b+ celebrates the potential of the existing built environment and aims to reveal and activate the latent potentials within.

b+ emphasizes working with different actors and stakeholders in project development. The practice values their knowledge and expertise and aims to create spaces for exchange and collaboration. b+ seeks to advance a new value system in architecture, one that places greater emphasis on collective responsibility, systemic thinking, and ecologically and economically viable solutions.

Currently led by Arno Brandlhuber, Olaf Grawert, Jonas Janke and Roberta Jurčić with Hannes Hehemann, Moritz Heuberger, Anastasiia Kalyta and Alberto Procaccini

Jonas Janke (DE, 1991) is an architect and partner at bplus.xyz. He has a diverse background in architecture, was trained as an architectural draughtsman before pursuing his studies in Hamburg, Stockholm, and Berlin. He gained valuable experience as a tutor and assistant in various departments including design & typologies, building construction, and structural design. He was part of the team 2038, the German Pavilion at 17th Venice Architecture Biennale 2021. His focus is on new construction materials and methods for adaptive reuse and renovation projects, seeking pragmatic technical and mechanical solutions that use material and construction thoughtfully.

Roberta Jurcic (HR, 1993) is an architect and partner at bplus.xyz (Berlin), where her focus is on translating theoretical concepts such as multi-species cohabitation into different formats of (built) architecture. She has a particular interest in ecological processes and systems, with a focus on habitats for humans and non-humans alike. In her practice, she investigates this interest in relation to the privatization of land, both in urban and rural contexts, through alternative media such as film. She was member of the teaching team at station+ (ETH Zurich) from 2019-2022.