Berliner Philharmonie
The Berlin Philharmonic Hall designed by Hans Scharoun was completed in 1963.
The iconic building is asymmetrical in shape appearing like a golden, draped tent. The concert hall is still highly regarded for its original design and acoustic qualities.
The work is part of Kulturforum, cultural area created in the early ’60s, which the Philharmonic was the first building to be completed.
The building of the Philharmonic, has become one of the most emblematic and characteristic of the city but the reception of Berliners after construction was not exactly enthusiastic.
Located in the heart of reunified Berlin, was criticized by the eccentricity of forms and winged roofs, a path that unusual for the time expired for host resistance excellent acoustics.
The room design is based on the concept of music as the main focus, “Music in the central point,” was the slogan with which the project was developed. The interior spaces determine the outer shape of the building, Scharoun built from the inside out, made successive phases and elements until the building as a result, creating an urban space in an area previously demolished.
The location and shape of the building create an entrance plaza from where you enter the building designed for Scharoun hall and plays with absolute asymmetric lines, enclosing within it a scenographic pentagonal structure with a ceiling lit with hundreds of lights cylinders. Its outer shell is shaped conical tent divided into several levels.
The use of space is very particular in this work. Usually in an auditorium or music room is the public who is facing the orchestra and the director, in this case the stage is set down in the middle of the room.
Actually, not in the geometric center, but the orchestra is surrounded by the audience that sits in terracing blocks around. Despite the grandeur of the room, you get an intimate atmosphere and excellent acoustics.
The foyer of the Philharmonic contrasts with the gathering core audience, is a fluid that is at a lower level than this. His face broad and layered, with many stairs and wide spaces invites leisurely stroll.
The Berlin Philharmonic Hall has indeed very practical acoustics and interior design, but is it really an organic architecture that also harmonizes with its surroundings? Does this mechanical-yellow color really represent the soil of the city garden? And does this asymmetrical building really fit into the area? Visitors will need to answer these questions on their own when visiting this messy city planning at the Kulturforum.
