Hackesches Quartier Berlin

The rounded forms of the office building follows the dynamic flow at this central hub of the “Hackesches Quartier” and completes the ensemble at its north-west corner. The diagonal struts of the exterior support structure break up the prescribed grid of 1.35 metres and create a contrast to the orthogonal rhythms in the façades of the adjacent buildings. At the same time, the flexible arrangement of dividing walls within the grid remain in place inside the building. Unlike classical staggered storeys, the orientation for the façade construction is provided by the two recessed storeys at the top of the building. Here the two diagonal struts that are tilted in two planes create a visual irritation reminiscent of M. C. Escher’s impossible spatial constructions.