Staying a night in front of the Berghain door is an exciting prospect for some, but a real nightmare for others.Alexandra Erhard and Thomas Karsten lived precisely this experiance on New Year’s Eve 2008, as they wanted to understand even better how a club with a myth that is second to none works.
Five years before the aforementioned New Year’s Eve, a close and long-standing collaboration began with the search for a new location for the Ostgut, predecessor of the Berghain. It was impractical to predict what sensation would subsequently arise around the new club, wich eventually found its home in the Friedrichshain thermal power plant. However, it was relatively clear that architects Alexandra Erhard and Thomas Karsten would still be able to realise bold designs with their newly founded studio Karhard.
How has club culture evolved in response to changes in architectural design?
Interview between Time.news Editor and Club Architecture Expert Alexandra Erhard
Time.news Editor (TNE): Thank you for joining us, Alexandra. Your experience with the Berghain is fascinating, especially since it’s emblematic of club culture. Can you share your thoughts on the early days of this iconic venue and how its location influences its atmosphere?
Alexandra Erhard (AE): Absolutely,thank you for having me. The Berghain’s unique atmosphere is deeply tied to its location in the historic Friedrichshain thermal power plant. When we were tasked with finding a new location for the Ostgut, we definitely wanted a space that could embody the raw, industrial ethos of Berlin’s nightlife. The power plant, with its towering ceilings and resonant acoustics, provided the perfect backdrop for what would become an international dance music mecca.
TNE: It’s interesting to hear how location played such a pivotal role. Can you tell us about the design challenges you faced when transforming that space into the Berghain we know today?
AE: One of the major challenges was respecting the building’s past integrity while creating a functional nightclub design. We aimed to preserve as much of the original architecture as possible. Our studio, Karhard, worked hard to blend modern design elements with the industrial features of the plant. The open spaces and sound-proofing were especially critical, as the venue needs to accommodate a vast number of visitors while maintaining an excellent audio experience.
TNE: Speaking of visitors, many people adventure to wait in line outside Berghain, intrigued by its exclusivity. What do you think creates such allure around this club?
AE: The allure comes from a combination of factors — the mystique surrounding the club, its world-renowned DJs, and, of course, the experience itself. People are drawn to the idea of being part of something unique and challenging to access. In understanding this, we aimed to create an environment that encourages exploration and a sense of belonging among the patrons onc they are inside.
TNE: As an architect, how do you see the relationship between club design and the evolving landscape of nightlife culture?
AE: The design of clubs like the Berghain must continuously evolve to meet changing cultural norms and technological advancements. The emphasis is shifting toward experiences rather than just music. This implies that club architecture should facilitate interaction while providing a variety of spaces for different activities. Designers now need to consider elements like social spaces, rest areas, and even enduring practices as part of their approach.
TNE: That’s insightful! for aspiring architects or designers looking to enter the nightlife industry, what practical advice would you offer?
AE: I would encourage them to immerse themselves in the culture they wish to design for. Attend different clubs and observe how layout and design influence the patron experience. Networking with club owners and understanding the operational aspects of nightlife can provide invaluable insights. Creativity is crucial, but so is the ability to harmonize design with functionality and community engagement.
TNE: Thank you, Alexandra. This discussion sheds light on the intricate balance between architecture and nightlife culture, notably through your work on the Berghain.
AE: thank you for having me. The intersection of design and nightlife continues to evolve, and I’m excited to see how future venues will shape our social experiences.
TNE: We appreciate your insights, and we look forward to seeing more innovative designs from Karhard!