In the heart of the city of Siegburg, the Michaelsberg monastery, founded in 1096, sits imposingly atop a hill. With a keen sense of history and materials, the former Benedictine abbey was converted into a conference center and, with the addition of a new building, the so-called Forum, a harmonious ensemble was created. The separation between old and new remains sharp, but is overcome by two narrow bridges. The Forum's structure makes it seem like it belongs: the two-story base, with its natural quarry stone, is modeled on the historic abbey façade. This is followed by a glass-fronted administrative floor, above which are a restaurant, conference rooms, and offices. The abbey houses hotel rooms, a reception area, and seminar rooms. Oak, natural stone, glass, and colors derived from these materials were used to create an interior design that combines old and new and allows visitors to feel the spirit of the building.

"New creed for a historic monastery"