DIE ALTE MUNZE

This proposal for revitalization of the building complex “Die Alte Müze” in the city center of Berlin has been developed as part of the CompASS course, ‘Competences for Agencies for Sustainable Site conversion’. The interdisciplinary participants conducted this research project in the context of the field practice, which took place from the 12th to the 16th of December 2017 in Berlin by practically applying the gained knowledge of the course in the case study “Die Alte Münze”. Die Alte Münze means the old coin, the name derives from the coinage which used to take place in the building complex. After the usage as a mint has terminated, interim usages have been implemented in the premises of Die Alte Münze.

Till the present of this research no decision about the future usage of the buildings has been made and Die Alte Münze remains in possession by the Property Management of the state Berlin. The sale of the building complex is restricted by the Property Management of the state of Berlin and a sustainable and future-oriented utilization concept is required, which guarantees the maintenance and preservation of the historical building complex.

Based on the three pillars of sustainability a comprehensive approach has been developed by addressing historical awareness, social integration, ecological compatibility and economic rentability.

Dealing with the historically significant building, with architectural features of the Nazi era and current users requires consideration of several aspects. Therefore, the developed future vision, builds on existing local structures, potentials, includes existing stakeholders and follows a participatory approach in order to achieve acceptance within the society.

Respectively, our project tackles questions like: Which social purpose has Die Alte Münze at its location in Berlin Mitte? How can future-oriented utilization structures be implemented in Die Alte Münze? What comprises a sustainable site conversion in the urban context? Which ecological, cultural, social and economical potentials contains Die Alte Münze?

The developed vision aims to create a multifaceted shared space where current users can proceed their creative activities, events can be conducted, residents of Berlin can meet, socialize and engage in activities, share and develop personal and professional skills and knowledge. It activates the community to participate in every step from the early beginning. Our aim is not only to implement the project, but also to strengthen the local structures and revitalize the building complex through the establishment of new activities.