1957 | Hugh Stubbins
John-Foster-Dulles-Allee 10, 10557 Berlin
he Kongresshalle, now known as the House of World Cultures in Berlin, was constructed as part of the 1957 INTERBAU exhibition, showcasing a design by architect Hugh Stubbins. It was intended as a symbol of freedom during the Cold War, prominently located to be visible from East Berlin.
The building features a distinctive curved roof, initially designed to be supported only by two pillars, symbolizing architectural freedom. Despite structural challenges and a catastrophic roof collapse in 1980 that led to a fatality, the building was reconstructed over five years, adhering to both Stubbins' original vision and updated safety standards.
Reopened for Berlin's 750th anniversary, it included a new sculpture by Henry Moore. The building continues to undergo partial restorations to preserve its structural integrity and historical significance.
Sources: https://archiv.hkw.de/de/hkw/architektur/start.php
Photos: Eric Bauermeister
