On 18 March 2026 at 5 pm, the moment had finally arrived: after three years of planning and construction, Stuttgart University of Applied Sciences celebrated the opening of the innovative, sustainable timber pavilion in its inner courtyard. ‘Block 4’ was handed over as a real-world laboratory for research and as a public meeting place. From April onwards, both spaces can be booked for events.
January 2023 saw the official launch of the externally funded HFT.Lab project, in which the new "Block 4" was designed, planned, postponed, rescheduled and now realised as a showcase prototype of sustainable construction with the participation of numerous dedicated students, university members and external project participants. Together, nine interdisciplinary courses involving more than 80 students were held, the sustainable, often innovative components used in the construction of "Block 4" were presented at exhibitions and conferences, and student and teaching awards were won. Now, with "Block 4", the university has a real laboratory for research and teaching, but above all a place for meetings, events and dialogue between students, university members, scientists and urban society. "Block 4" is ready to be filled with life by you!
The red ribbon for the ceremonial opening of Block 4 was cut that day by Björn Riker. As a former HFT student, Riker designed and built the predecessor of the current Block 4 as a meeting place for students. On 18 March, Björn Riker and his fellow board member of the Friends of HFT Stuttgart association, Bernd Göhner, were made honorary senators of the university. Both Göhner and Riker invited all those present to barbecue sausages and drinks.