Neuer Gerichtskomplex
Envisioning the Courthouse of Berlin and its embodied civic identity.
H.N. Naik (TU Delft - Architecture and the Built Environment)
HA van Bennekom – Mentor (TU Delft - History, Form & Aesthetics)
F.J. Speksnijder – Graduation committee member (TU Delft - Teachers of Practice / AE+T)
C.E.M. Blom – Graduation committee member
A. Geuze – Graduation committee member (TU Delft - Landscape Architecture)
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Abstract
Courthouses are the very front face of the judicial system. It can also be referred to as a connecting link or the only link between the people and the fundamental rights to justice described under the Constitution. Situating in the city of Berlin, with a dynamic history of changing power and law, the new Judicial complex aims to open itself to the people of Berlin, bringing back the lost civic identity of the courthouse complex. The proposal finds itself in the beating heart of the city and along the future cultural spine - river Spree. The larger vision thrives towards designing a courthouse that forms the centre of public activities and blends into the daily dynamics of people’s life. Bringing the law back to the city centre would allow more people to be part of it and how their involvement would shape the decisions taken, and how people’s opinions could play a vital role in judicial systems. Looking at the future idea of a modern public space and the court being a part of it will reflect the needs of the dynamic group of Berliners and generate an atmosphere where the city and the law can share the space. Breaking the historic stereotypical barrier will help dilute the threshold that separates the city to participate in the law.