Luisenhain, Berlin, Germany

The “harp” spanning Luisenhain creates a harmonic composition out of the connection of the historic city centre of Köpenick and the water of the Dahme river. The ‘strings’ of the harp are made of granite and mimic the historic water gardens of the site.

The residential courtyards are opened and are given new passages. The ‘frame’ of the harp is formed by the river shore promenade, constructed out of light granite, from which wide stairs lead to the cool damp of the river. Low yew hedges, which allow for views across the site, frame the pathways. At night, spotlights illuminate hawthorn trees. The enclosures of the adjacent residential buildings were designed with attention to increased openness, transparency and improved quality of life. The water and the city are joined together.