6 - Free University, Berlin, Germany

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Berlin is one European capital not to be missed. Charged with heavy historical undertones, let's not forget that the wall separating the city into East and West fell only twenty years ago. Today, Berlin is witnessing a fresh and thriving surge of creative energy. Shortly after the Second World War, the Free University (FU) was founded in 1948 with democracy at its heart. Founded on student initiative committed to freedom and democracy, the labyrinth of low-rise concrete blocks is a symbol of independence. In-keeping with the university's prestigious past (and present), Foster+Partners attacked the renovation of the university's library. A university library is the heart of a university; seething with thought, influences, and people, the accomplished design reflects exactly that. The library is the central organ of Berlin's Free University. A gigantic bubble structure amidst the concrete blocks stands out and provides fresh new colour and line to the complex. The lack of straight lines could be interpreted as a reaction against the rigidity of post-war Germany which is demonstrated through the architecture of the rest of the university. Connected to the main university building as if via a valve, the new library's outer shell glows yellow and blue at night reminding one of a living organism. Inside, the almost entirely white panelling and furniture would look clinical if it weren't for the splendidly fluid and dynamic curves of the desks and platforms, roof, walls...the entire structure could be the set for the next science fiction blockbuster. The fluid lines fascinate as they imitate the movement of thought. Within the university complex the library successfully lives out its emblematic function in the history of the university, but also of Germany's capital.

Text: Rooksana Hossenally. Photo: Rudi Meisel for Foster+Partners

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