Nestled in the heart of the Altmühltal Nature Park, the Forest Experience Centre Schernfeld has been expanded with a contemporary entrance and administration building. The new extension complements the existing facilities, providing modern accommodation for visitor groups, seminars and a wide range of environmental education activities.
Architecture in Harmony with Nature
Constructed using modern wood construction methods, the new building features a clean, contemporary design that blends sensitively into the surrounding woodland. A generously covered entrance clearly defines the arrival area while providing shelter for visitors. Large glazed façades offer expansive views of the adjacent forest, creating a strong visual connection with the natural surroundings. The existing trees were deliberately incorporated into the design, providing natural shading for the building. In addition, a green roof further enhances its seamless integration into the landscape.
Resource-efficient use of materials, long-term durability and regional value creation were key considerations throughout the project. Numerous building components were individually designed and manufactured by local specialist craftspeople.


Durable Wood-Aluminium Systems
The building envelope incorporates the GUTMANN LARA GF wood-aluminium curtain wall system together with the GUTMANN MIRA contour wood-aluminium window system. This combination brings together the natural warmth of wood on the interior with a weather-resistant aluminium exterior, creating a durable and energy-efficient building envelope. The systems integrate harmoniously into the overall architectural concept while meeting the demanding functional requirements of a modern educational and administrative building—an ideal solution for a place dedicated to protecting nature and enabling visitors to experience it first-hand.
Sources
Bayerische Architektenkammer – Neubau Walderlebniszentrum Schernfelm
Bayerisches Landesportal – Holzbau trifft Walderleben
GUTMANN Referenzprojekt – Walderlebniszentrum Schernfeld
