Spaces of Fear in Underground Stations: Architectural Solutions using the Example of Elsterwerdaer Platz along the U5 Line, taking into Account the Protection of Historical Monuments

Task

Elsterwerdaer Platz underground station is one of nine underground stations on the U5 underground line that will be listed in 2023. These include the underground station Tierpark, built between 1969 and 1973, and the above-ground stations Biesdorf-S¨¹d, Wuhletal, Kaulsdorf-Nord, Cottbusser Platz, Hellersdorf, Louis-Lewin-Stra?e and H?now, which were built between 1985 and 1989. The design of these stations is based on a connecting series design that characterises the line. A special architectural feature of these underground stations is the unique ramp architecture, which in some cases also contributes to the creation of anxiety zones. In addition to the individual underground stations, the underground line itself is also of historical significance, as it was the only underground line realised in Berlin in the former GDR. At the time, this line served to develop the residential areas in Hellersdorf, which were built at the same time.

Methodology

Spaces of fear are based on the complex concept of security. For this reason, the concept of security in connection with spaces of fear was first examined, followed by an analysis of their development. A historical and area-specific analysis completes the research. Two drafts were created in consultation with the monument protection authority and through archive research: On the one hand, how to deal with areas of anxiety at the existing building on Elsterwerdaer Platz, and on the other, preventative measures for the newly planned subway to provide barrier-free access to the railway platform.

Result

Archive research and photo documentation were used to base the design of the existing building on the original appearance of the station. A decisive factor here was the floor covering, particularly in the ramp area. Due to the smoothness of the former concrete surfaces, this was covered with asphalt. Overall, the station now presents itself in dark colours, which, however, do not correspond to its original state. In addition, the light boxes were given a multi-partitioned structure, which creates an oppressive effect. The incoherent content of the information boards also contributes to the restless design of the station and also obscures the characteristic pattern of the station. By modernising and removing the light boxes and using light-coloured materials suitable for public transport, it was possible to bring the appearance closer to the original. A fearful space created by the ramp architecture in the form of a long tunnel corridor was given special consideration and was able to defuse the oppressive atmosphere of the space by means of a new lighting concept and LCD installations that bring the history closer. The use of mirrors also ensured greater clarity. The new pedestrian subway picks up on the original entrance height as well as the colour scheme and design language of the underground station. As the two buildings are connected, the aim was to create a coherent appearance. The targeted use of light and interactive art is also intended to counteract the typical perception of a subway as a fearful space. Music as a connecting element has an unconscious effect on our perception of space and is intended to have a positive influence on the atmosphere in both the tunnel corridor and the pedestrian subway.