radialsystem
Tradition meets innovation
The radialsystem is a genuine magnet for inspiration and culture, where you can experience music, art and dance. Best of all is the large open-air terrace with sun deck.
The mid 19th-century architecture of the radialsystem comes from the time when the building was a pumping station for the Berlin sewer system. Since 2006, the listed industrial building has hosted unique performances, musical shows, choreographic concerts and dance performances.
Tradition meets modernity directly by the Spree in Friedrichshain. The listed architecture of the original industrial building is innovatively combined with modern glass architecture.
The radialsystem hosts events such as Radiale Nights, family days or opera for children. Events that bring the generations together are one of the most important parts of the concept, which explicitly aims to attract a young audience. The team constantly develops new opportunities for young people to learn dance and music.
The musical theatre of the future
Four free ensembles use the radialsystem as a base for their productions: the Akademie für Alte Musik Berlin, Sasha Waltz & Guests, the Kaleidoskop soloist ensemble and Vocalconsort.
The basic principle of founders Jochen Sandig and Folkert Uhde is based on an open method of working – without excessive rules and regulations. It’s all about the freedom to experiment and create.
Artists and performers from Germany and abroad perform at the former industrial site, and spectacular events regularly reaffirm the idea and concept of the radialsystem.
Events at the pumping station
The interaction of culture, politics, economics, science and media was part of the concept from the start. With its imposing old architecture and new design, the radialsystem has become a much-sought after venue for events.
The creative ensemble and its rooms are available for events and rehearsals of any kind. On six floors, there are small and large units on a total floorspace of 2500 m² for workshops, conferences and dance rehearsals.
The lower floors have been left in the old architectural style of the 19th century, while the upper levels have been renovated with a modern design.
One special place is the 400 m² open-air terrace on the third floor, which combines the old and new styles. In summer the Spree terrace on the south-west side is most popular, because then you can not only enjoy the superb view, but also the warm summer sun. In the neighbouring foyer there is a café and bar.
The architecture of the old pumping station
The radialsystem was built in 1881 as part of Berlin’s sewer system. The city’s rapid growth meant that it had to be extended as early as 1905. This extension, designed by the architect Richard Tettenborn using Brick Gothic elements, is a typical example of 19th-century industrial architecture. After the second world war, only the newer, now listed, part of the building remained standing. From 2004, based on the plans of the Berlin architect Gerhard Spangenberg, a new complex of buildings was constructed, consisting of historic components and a new transparent glass structure to replace the parts of the building that had been destroyed.
Certified Partner
The company is acertified partner in visitBerlin's sustainability programme. Based on 60 criteria, an external agency checks how sustainably a company operates. The criteria include, among others, the treatment of employees, the use of resources and the long-term sustainability strategy.
