1st prize in the competition for the Behrens-Ufer

Our design for one of the three high points on Behrens-Ufer in one of Berlin’s currently most exciting development areas was successful! Our building A 3.1 marks the entrance to the future-proof commercial quarter with its international model character and impresses with its subtle architectural formulation.

Despite embodying solidity, these façades are finely structured and interspersed with ornamentation based on the masonry logic or the underlying module. As a characterising element, a pillar motif was chosen that refers to the Berlin industrial building tradition, specifically to the parapet detail of the Scharnhorst guyed tower by Hans Heinrich Müller. Apart from the outstanding material properties, the use of brickwork creates a direct link to the impressive industrial buildings along the banks of the Spree, thus contributing to the identity and distinctiveness of the location. The effect of the Behrenbau, whose façades are predominantly rendered, continues to stand out from the overall picture.

Flexibility and sustainability characterise the design, which is to be realised using a strictly modular hybrid construction method consisting of wooden ribs made of glulam with a thin concrete slab as a ceiling surface. The building is to be CO2-neutral in terms of its heating and cooling supply.

Excerpt from the jury report: “The work refers to historical references of Berlin industrial architecture in the façade design and materiality. The focus is on proportion, rhythm, tectonics and physicality. These features in combination with the architectural language of brick give the entire complex its own strong character. Within the strict basic structure, the authors have succeeded in creating diversity and variety in the volumetry and design. The two building blocks, high-rise and block, are given their own façade rhythm according to their uses, while at the same time appearing as a powerful unit. (…) Overall, the work is convincing due to its clear urban figure, the robust spatial and construction concept and the subtle architectural formulation.”