This January, RTL Audio Centre Berlin became reality. Designed by Swiss architecture firm Evolution Design, the facility was completed and ready to welcome its nearly 200 employees to their new home. Adapting to the new space should prove effortless—the interior design itself is an inspiring immersion into the world of audio entertainment. But there's more to the story: Berlin itself shaped the design vision. The capital's distinctive character—raw yet cutting-edge—flows throughout the interior spaces, creating an authentic sense of place.

The reception serves as the gateway to RTL's world, crafted to captivate visitors and reveal how an audio hub operates. Vertical slats and microphone-shaped lights—evoking sound waves—define the striking reception desk. Beyond it sits the Wall of Fame: an impressive showcase of RTL's gold records and accolades. The adjacent visitor lounge doubles as an interactive experience. Inspired by Pink Floyd's "The Wall," it features an industrial brick wall backdrop showcasing media displays and broadcasting achievements. A fully glazed partition offers views into the artistically illuminated IT room, where audio recordings are captured and archived. A semi-public loft-style space invites employees, guests, and music artists to collaborate and connect, anchored by an exclusive performance stage—the perfect setting for RTL's legendary in-house concerts.

A unifying design thread runs through the entire space, symbolizing a journey through music. Signature design elements—bespoke neon installations, wall graphics, and furnishings in RTL's iconic red—weave seamlessly across all areas. The loft aesthetic emerges from a rich palette of metal, wood, full-height glazing, perforated wall panels, and vibrant graffiti art. Handrails salvaged from Berlin's subway system add an unmistakable urban edge. Energized by the spirit of the music industry, the spaces invite exploration and discovery, while Berlin's distinctive urban atmosphere remains ever-present. This fusion of influences defines the RTL Audio Centre's unique character.

www.evolution-design.info

Photography Credits:

Sebastian Dörken
www.sbdsgn.de
Max Schroeder
www.max-schroeder.com

(Published in CUBE Berlin 02|21)