In the international design competition featuring seven renowned architecture firms competing to reimagine the Carl Bechstein Campus in Berlin's Europacity, GRAFT emerged as the winner. The designs by Kleihues + Kleihues and Staab Architekten also earned recognition. Envisioned as a premier destination for piano enthusiasts, the Carl Bechstein Campus will bring together diverse programming under one roof. The competition challenged architects to create a distinctive architectural identity while seamlessly integrating concert halls, administrative offices, restaurants, practice studios, and retail spaces into a cohesive urban experience.

Chaired by Jette Cathrin Hopp, architect and director at Snøhetta, the jury selected GRAFT's design for its compelling urban vision. The firm masterfully expands the plaza toward Heidestraße, establishing the campus as a distinctive landmark that strengthens neighborhood identity without overwhelming the surrounding urban context. The jury particularly praised the entrance sequence—a carefully choreographed gateway to the concert halls that combines elegance with spatial clarity. Both Berlin firms Kleihues + Kleihues and Staab Architekten received third prize recognition for their exceptional proposals.

Located at Heidestraße 46-52 in Berlin's Europacity, the Carl Bechstein Campus will accommodate two concert halls, practice and conference rooms, the Bechstein Academy, administrative offices, retail galleries for grand and upright pianos, and complementary retail offerings. A permanent exhibition of historic keyboard instruments will showcase instruments also used in performances and master classes. Completing this ambitious vision are scholarship residences positioned at the rear of the site. The Berlin-based specialist firm a:dks managed the competition process.

The public is invited to view all competition submissions at the Carl Bechstein Hall (Brunsbütteler Damm 136a, 13581 Berlin) from January 22–26 and January 29–31, 2024, between noon and 3 p.m. The designs are also available online at www.carl-bechstein-campus.de.

www.carl-bechstein-campus.de