The House of World Cultures (Haus der Kulturen der Welt)
Berlin, 2007

© GAP Gesellschaft für Architektur
& Projektmanagement mbH

With his contribution to the 1957 Interbau, US architect Hugh A. Stubbins wished to create a symbol of freedom and international understanding that was even visible from the east sector of Berlin. As was concluded in a specialist publication from 1990, however, the functional properties of the building were sadly neglected and only serve as a grand architectural gesture to a monument of a former era. Our brief was to infuse this building with new life and prepare it for a future-oriented use – no easy brief, as today’s House of World Cultures sees itself as “one of the leading centres for extra-European contemporary arts”. The centre is strongly multimedia-oriented and requires a very flexible and resilient building.

Within a year, we redeveloped the listed building in conformity with conservation standards. The technical infrastructure was renewed for versatile use from conferences to exhibitions to dance theatre, safety standards for visitors and employees were raised and the roof terrace redeveloped. We even developed a lighting concept for the building’s unique façade.

As part of this process, the original structure and materials were strengthened and all interventions were kept to a necessary minimum.

Our redevelopment concept has ensured that today’s use for what Berliners have lovingly dubbed the ‘Pregnant Oyster’ is secured for the long term. Now nothing stands in the way of future intercultural collaborations.


Brief: Conversion of a former congress hall into a multimedia event and exhibition centre | Client: Kulturveranstalter des Bundes in Berlin GmbH (KBB) | Location: John-Foster-Dulles-Allee 10, 10557 Berlin, Germany | Construction costs: 6.9 m € (cost group 300+400) | Gross floor space: 7,400 m² | Construction period: 07.2006-07.2007 | Services: Service rendering phases 1-9 in accordance with HOAI, general planning