Gasometer Berlin

Berlin, Germany

A DOME JUST IN TIME

The replica of the famous Dome of the German Reichstag building is a new attraction in the Schöneberg district of Berlin, Germany. Situated inside an unused gasometer, the dome serves as a transparent covering for events and exhibitions. The structure is 22m high and has a diameter of 30m. 20 latticed steel trusses form the substructure of the dome. 20 single layer, transparent ETFE panels were used to protect visitors from the elements. Each individual panel has an area of 70m² giving a total surface area of 1,400m². The ETFE foil is transparent with a light transmission of approx. 90% and a thickness of 250μm. The panels are connected to the trusses by means of a membrane keder edge and aluminium clamping plates. The scalloped edges at the eaves are formed using clamp plates and edge cables. To avoid overstressing due to wind uplift, suction cables span the foil running from the apex to the eaves. The challenge posed to Hightex was to procure, fabricate and deliver all materials to site within 3 weeks. After successfully delivering on time the dome was inaugurated by the German Chancellor Mrs. Angela Merkel on the 10th of August 2009.