Elevated above Tempelhof’s iconic airport terminal stands the Radarturm. This isn’t just any tower. It’s a testament to ingenious engineering, born from a unique challenge in 1982. The Radarturm’s distinctive form isn’t merely an aesthetic choice. It’s a solution to a complex technical problem. A highly sensitive radar device, crucial for air traffic control, was to be mounted atop the tower. This radar was extremely susceptible to even the slightest tilt or rotation. Initial attempts to build a sturdy, rigid tower to minimize movement proved insufficient. Even massive dimensions and thick walls couldn’t meet the stringent requirements. So, the engineers reimagined the approach. Instead of resisting the wind, they decided to work with it. Four slender, flexible towers were constructed on a shared foundation. The radar platform rests upon the center of these four towers. As the wind blows, these towers sway. The movement is significantly greater than a single, thick tower would experience. But, crucially, the four support points always remain at the same height. This eliminates tilting, only allowing horizontal movement. This horizontal sway, while greater than a traditional tower, remains within acceptable limits. The Radarturm stands as a delicate counterpoint to the monumental airport building. It is a blend of lightness and modernity against the weighty, dark expanse of the 1940s structure. The contrast creates a captivating ensemble. This seemingly simple structure embodies a sophisticated understanding of physics and a clever solution to a difficult problem. The Radarturm stands tall, a testament to human ingenuity and a unique landmark in Berlin’s skyline.
Genossenschaft PA58
From 1981 the Genossenschaft PA58 stands tall. It’s a self-managed house project. This is its story. This impressive building in