Successfully modernised: The Haus am Zentrum

Built in 1913 and listed as a historic monument, the former Haus der Gesundheit in Berlin Mitte shines in new splendour after intensive renovation and modernisation. We at pde made a significant contribution to this: the complete renewal of the technical building equipment (TBE) over a renovation area of around 8,000 m² – while the practice continued to operate in some areas.

The planning and technical challenges:

Gutting and renewal of the entire TGA (including new underground pipes after removal of the floor slab)
Integration of new safety-related systems (fire brigade lift, pressure ventilation, emergency power system, fire alarm system, lightning protection system)
Relocation and reorganisation of all utility connections
Interim solutions for supplying existing tenants
Placement of the new central ventilation system (18,000 m³/h) in the basement despite severely limited room heights
Preservation of the listed building structure

From the initial concept sketches to the comprehensive planning of all trades in service phases 2–8, a great deal of tact and sensitivity was required. Thanks to effective 3D planning, close coordination within the client's interdisciplinary team and cross-trade cooperation with our pde experts from the fire protection department, the complexity of the project was successfully mastered.

A special milestone: the smoke protection pressure system and fire brigade lift required by building regulations were successfully tested this year and approved by the Berlin Fire Brigade.

We have succeeded in adapting a historic building for contemporary use – and at the same time demonstrating how modernisation in line with conservation guidelines and advanced building technology can go hand in hand. The building in the centre has already been handed over to its users in its entirety.