AM TACHELES

Berlin, Germany

Project details
Client

pwr development GmbH

Architect

Herzog & de Meuron, AUKETT + HEESE, Grüntuch Ernst Architekten, Brandlhuber+ Muck Petzet, RKW Architektur +

Duration

2016 – 2023

Services provided by Buro Happold

Structural engineering

AM TACHELES is a mixed-use development located between Friedrichstrasse and Oranienburger Strasse in the heart of Berlin Mitte.

Occupying a 23,346m² area, the scheme will breathe new life into the historic quarter, which is home to the former Kunsthaus Tacheles building, with the creation of a vibrant new community.

Currently under construction, the development comprises a series of new structures incorporating 98,800m² floor area (above ground) of offices, apartments and retail space, all positioned around three public plazas and one private courtyard. The buildings will be of varying design and range from six to seven storeys. The development will offer underground parking with approximately 400 spaces.

As part of a joint venture with another engineering firm, Buro Happold is providing structural planning for six of the apartment buildings, one office complex and three of the courtyards.

Challenge

A key challenge for the Buro Happold team was to deliver a ‘smart’ and efficient structural system that would meet the requirements of multiple teams working on the mixed-use development. With five different architects engaged on the project, achieving the right balance of aesthetics and efficiency is essential to its success.

To supplement this challenge, the design phase of the upper storeys ran in parallel with the underground and basement construction, creating a fast-paced and highly demanding environment.

Our experts are providing structural planning for six of the apartment buildings, one office complex and three of the courtyards. Images: xoio GmbH

Solution

Our team worked in close collaboration with the client, project manager, architects and MEP teams to deliver outstanding solutions for every aspect of the project. We adopted a Building Information Management (BIM) approach to the planning process, using bespoke software to significantly increase planning efficiency. This enabled the team to integrate all elements of the design into one model, which in turn made visualisation and collaboration with the rest of the design team much more effective. The model also allowed us to identify any clashes between MEP and structural elements, preventing issues later in the process.

In order to deliver the most efficient construction programme within a tight time frame, we adopted a flexible approach to the project plan. To optimise efficiencies, our team undertook detailed studies to compare different basement and foundation designs against cost, performance and speed of construction.

The project will breath new life into an area that is steeped in history. Image: xoio GmbH

Value

Through the use of an intelligent model-based process for informing and communicating project decisions, we were able to deliver the highest quality outcomes and achieve a fast track programme. Our joined-up approach has ensured that all services integrate seamlessly with the structural design of the AM TACHELES development.

Delivering an exciting new development in the heart of Berlin. Image: bloomimages