As one of the German cities spared the devastation of World War II, Rottenburg maintains an important historical center with marks dating back to medieval and Baroque times. Of particular interest is the bishop’s palace, constructed around the Church of Saint Joseph, which was demolished in the late 18th century. On the site resulting from this demolition now stands a building that accommodates the diocesan offices and archives, a project where the floor plan and the facade are inspired in the Baroque plan and sculptural elevation of the razed church.

The new building is composed of two volumes. The main one overlooks the public square and acts as a hinge between the two adjoining constructions. Perpendicular to the main volume, a rear pavilion stretches out to complete the long and narrow space available. With the circulation cores located between these two volumes, the layout becomes legible and functional.

The two volumes have different personalities. Opening on to the square, the more representative one presents a brick surface with sinuous curves perforated by twenty-one glass boxes. For its part, the rear volume containing the offices gives nuance to its extensive elevation through the dynamic perception suggested by the zigzag formation of its large timber-framed windows.