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Layers of time - Visitors centre for the Olympic Village of 1936
Berlin
The new entrance for the Olympic village is located a few meters eastward of the existing situation. It generates a neutral point of origin for the discovery of the elements of the site. The ambivalent environment with its idealized landscape and the reserved view of the architectural monuments are part of the concept which can be felt at the entrance. A small point of sale outlet marks the start of the route which follows the internal logic of the centre. Two panels shape the visitor’s centre located in the area of the ancient bastion. The panels run parallel to a birch avenue planted during soviet occupation. From this point the visitor has a view over the complete area and can establish a visual relationship between the individual elements. The panels form a counterpart to the ancient buildings from different times. As a spatial element they disturb the idyllic landscape – they create boundaries as a symbol for the conflict between sport, the Third Empire and the GDR. The layers can also be understood as showing the invisible border between infantry school and military hospital.
The horizontal striped structure of the walls provides a fragmentary view of the area; only glimpses of distinctive objects are given by purposeful gaps. The path to the reception building is marked by these precise and vague views of the ensemble or individual ancient buildings. After passing the entrance area and facilities such as WC and storage rooms the visitor immerses into the landscape and experiences the cuts made. The multi-functional room at the end of the lowest level is total submerged in the ground and is lit via a skylight. The trip through the history of the Olympian village begins at the first ramp. Views of historic landmarks are granted, sometimes framed though both panels. This framing accentuates the objects through both depth effect and blending out the background. Information and historic background is provided on the middle panel wall. Upon arrival at ground level, the visitor is invited to enter the landscape and process the information and glimpses gained along his journey though exploration on-site. A further ramp leads to a café. The exposed location and broad window of the café grants a wide ranging view of the entire area.
The visit to the Olympic village becomes an experience of the changing history of the site through intense examination. |