Nicola: Why choose you? I'm more than happy to address that question – there are multiple reasons why it had to be YOU. Just Architekten has earned my admiration as an architectural firm for its willingness to take on a diverse range of projects, rather than pigeonholing itself into a single theme. What stands out to me is your generalist approach, which involves tackling each new task with a unique and tailored perspective, always mindful of its specific use and seeking inventive solutions. You exhibit a readiness to reinterpret challenges and address them in innovative ways.

This is precisely why I extended the invitation for you to join me in Saarbrücken. I was in search of an architect who I knew would approach my students' proposals with an open mind, offering valuable insights owing to their extensive expertise. I've encountered other architectural firms that maintain a strict and inflexible approach to their subject matter, which doesn't align with my background as a product designer.

Similarly, I invited you and Just Architekten to accompany us at OMC°C because I believed your vast knowledge in architecture and urban planning would be invaluable. You're a team player who actively participates in discussions, takes initiative, and thrives in collaborative settings. Over the course of our two-year collaboration, both Carlotta and I have come to highly appreciate your and Nils' contributions as conversation partners.

As product designers, we oversee the conceptualization, organization, and leadership of the entire project. We recognize that without your expertise in statics, spatial considerations, and construction realization, we wouldn't have been able to execute the project in the same manner. Furthermore, I've observed your proficiency in strategy and communication, and your strategic insights regarding how topics can be approached, promoted, or initiated from an urban structural perspective have consistently proven enlightening.

Nicola: What's truly remarkable is that we haven't encountered any significant obstacles in this endeavor. The subjects of greenery, biodiversity, climate resilience, and shading are undeniably of climatological and societal importance, and it's precisely this social significance that motivates all of us to engage fully. This isn't about individual egos; it's about collectively devising the best possible solutions for the greater good.

We are essentially crafting a series of products, not just a single solution. As product designers, we come from a background deeply rooted in series production and serial thinking. This concept represents a new frontier for you as architects, as well as for the structural engineers and steelworkers on our team. We've frequently pondered, both amongst ourselves and with you, the essence of this series product and why we've passionately advocated for every centimeter and every kilogram.

"It is exactly this exchange that makes the collaboration in our large interdisciplinary team so exciting."

This project is a tremendous gift. To have the opportunity to contribute to it and witness its transformation into a startup within such a short span is truly remarkable. The support and backing of the city of Frankfurt, driven by its recognition of the project's political relevance, owe a great deal to you. You, as an individual, have been consistently approachable and supportive right from the start, always open to discussions. Furthermore, your office comprises an exceptionally reliable and dedicated team that actively collaborates and pragmatically nurtures ideas. This team dynamic has played a pivotal role in our success.

Nicola: I remember that we discussed at some point that we needed to extend the team. From my point of view, it was evident that we required nothing less than the utmost expertise from every field. Given the substantial effort, dedication, enthusiasm, and, naturally, financial investment devoted to this project, mediocrity simply wasn't an option. You introduced Bollinger+Grohmann, and I brought in Stefan Diez. Both firms made substantial contributions, greatly enhancing our discussions and project development, ultimately facilitating the realization of the prototypes.

Nicola: This reaffirms what I've learned from my experience in product development. The most efficient and easily understandable solutions emerge when teams collaborate effectively. Our project's rapid and precise execution would have been impossible without the strength of our team. We must maintain this approach and pass it on to students and young employees, "Don't fall in love with your own work and your own project. Incorporate the best expertise from various fields and work with clear goals and outcomes, but always with great openness."