Street view of a modern building under construction with a white van, large glass windows, and a visible staircase.

A street view of a modern building under construction, with a white van parked on the side. The building features large glass windows and a visible staircase. Construction barriers and equipment are present, and two people are standing near a row of bicycles.

A modern multi-story building with a grid-like facade featuring large glass windows. The structure is situated next to a tree-lined street, with some construction materials visible on the ground.
A modern multi-story building with large windows and a grid-like facade.
A modern building under construction with large glass windows and a geometric facade.
A modern multi-story building with large windows and a grid-like facade, located along a street with other buildings visible in the background.
A modern building facade with large glass windows and a grid-like structure.
A modern multi-story building under construction with large windows, located next to a road and surrounded by other buildings and trees.
A modern multi-story building under construction with a grid-like facade and large windows.
A modern building under construction with a grid-like facade and large windows. The site is fenced off with construction signs visible.
Interior view of a modern staircase with concrete walls and glass railings, leading to a skylight.
A modern interior hallway with concrete walls and ceiling, featuring large glass partitions and a view of greenery through a window at the end.

Story

A dynamic reimagining of a 1970s media building in Cologne's historic core Situated in the heart of Cologne's old town, near the iconic Cathedral and bustling main railway station, the WDR Filmhaus architectural reinvention. Originally conceived in the 1970s, this building has been transformed by Buchner Bründler into a vibrant cross-media house. The centerpiece of this transformation is a striking staircase, designed as a continuous cascade, which cuts through the existing structure to create visual and communicative links across floors. This architectural intervention enhances its functionality as a media hub. The staircase acts as a social spine, encouraging interaction and collaboration among users. Its design integrates seamlessly with the building's original framework, respecting the historical context of Appellhofplatz while injecting a contemporary dynamism.

## Design Highlights

A cascading staircase that visually and physically connects multiple floors. Integration of modern elements within a 1970s structure. Respectful enhancement of a historically significant site. Promotion of communication and interaction through architectural form.

## Key Facts

Feature Detail
Location Cologne, Germany
Architect Buchner Bründler
Original Structure 1970s
Function Cross-media house
Central Element Continuous cascading staircase

Technical Summary

Finishes

  • walls: Concrete walls
  • railings: Glass railings

Materials

  • glass — windows and facade
  • concrete — walls and structural elements

Construction / Systems

  • facade: Grid-like facade with large glass windows
  • structural: Concrete structural elements

Products

  • Not specified

Palette / Lighting

  • Colors: Not specified
  • Lighting: Natural lighting through large windows and skylight

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