Robert Niess

Robert Niess is a Professor of Architecture at the Peter Behrens School of Arts, Hochschule Düsseldorf, where he leads the teaching area of 'Designing and Building in Existing Structures.' He has served as Pro-Dean of the faculty since 2011 and is actively involved in architectural education, research, and practice.

His research and teaching focus on the holistic integration of historical, ecological, and cultural dimensions in architectural interventions within existing buildings. Key areas include adaptive reuse, sustainable refurbishment, and urban transformation, particularly in public and cultural facilities such as libraries, schools, and religious buildings. He emphasizes analytical understanding, documentation, and creative design solutions that respect the historical fabric while meeting contemporary needs.

The published works of Robert Niess reflect a strong trend toward sustainable, context-sensitive architecture, with recurring themes in renovation, material reuse, and the transformation of public buildings. His publications often explore the philosophical and practical challenges of intervening in existing structures, advocating for interdisciplinary and ecologically responsible approaches.

Scientific Awards:

• Architekturpreis Berlin MPB Treptow (2016)
• IOC/IAKS Award in Gold 2009
• Deutscher Holzbaupreis 2007 (Anerkennung)
• Holzbaupreis 2006 (1. Preis)
• Brandenburgischer Ingenieurpreis 2006 (1. Preis)
• Brandenburgischer Architekturpreis 2003 (Anerkennung)
• Outstanding Professional Accomplishment, Virginia Tech (2001)
• Architekturpreis 1996 des BDA Berlin (Anerkennung)

Robert Niess has supervised numerous student competition projects in collaboration with cities and institutions, contributing to real-world architectural developments. He is a member of the In-LUST institute, promoting interdisciplinary research in livable and sustainable urban development. His professional practice, Chestnutt_Niess Architekten BDA, based in Berlin, has delivered award-winning projects in public architecture. He also serves as a visiting professor and guest critic internationally, enhancing academic exchange and innovation in architectural education.

Labs and Teams:

• Member of In-LUST (Institut für lebenswerte und umweltgerechte Stadtentwicklung), an interdisciplinary institute at HSD focusing on sustainable urban development.
• Former member of the LUST research project (2013–2016), addressing urban challenges such as mobility, energy transition, and demographic change.
• Supervises the Space Laboratory (Room 06.2.008) at PBSA.