BIWERMAU Architekten

Description

The former central power station was built in 1880 as part of the first construction phase of the Speicherstadt and is part of the Speicherstadt UNESCO World Heritage Site. Together with the neighbouring boiler house, it supplied power to the warehouse buildings and their conveyor systems. After a fire in 1891, the building was rebuilt at a reduced height and with a partially altered design. During the Second World War, the facility was again severely damaged by an aerial bomb, so that subsequently only the eastern part of the building was restored. The front building, which had been destroyed during the war, has now been rebuilt on its historical foundations to its original dimensions and, together with the previously unused existing building, has been repurposed. All historical components were carefully restored in accordance with historic preservation requirements, ensuring their longevity. The new front building has been designed as a contemporary addition that sensitively responds to the existing structure. The goal is to once again create a unified ensemble comprising both the old and new sections, one that highlights the different historical layers while allowing visitors to experience the unique urban context of this site through its historical character.