Resource-efficient construction and conservation

I – 6 Digital reconstruction and information processing methods

Full title: Analysis of digital reconstruction and information processing methods for the Anhalter Bahnhof in Berlin

For the repurposing of existing buildings, handling building information is crucial; however, this information is often unstructured, erroneous, or nonexistent. The challenge becomes even greater when the building no longer exists and only reports, images, and plans are available. The goal of this work is to create a digital reconstruction of the Anhalter Bahnhof in Berlin through comprehensive research and modeling methods. The methodology must be continuously reviewed to ensure a structured analysis and digital reconstruction.

The presentation of the information should be designed to be visually appealing to both professional users and laypersons. The work will be carried out in collaboration with the Ingenieur Baukunst e.V., in whose polylocal IngenieurBaukunstMuseum the results will be presented. A central component of the work is the development of a process for the digital reconstruction of existing buildings, which also includes an ecological assessment of all building components in digital form.

Details of the tasks will be specified prior to commencement.

Contact person:
Dipl.-Ing. Tobias Westphal
0351 463 40472

I – 5 Repurposing of a former restaurant

Full title: Development of repurposing scenarios for the former Ahornblatt restaurant

Adapting existing buildings to address socio-ecological challenges is a crucial area requiring thorough planning. This task involves digitally reconstructing the former large restaurant Ahornblatt by analyzing plans, images, and texts. The goal is to create a consistent information base to assess the accuracy and flexibility of the digital model. The results will be presented in collaboration with Ingenieur Baukunst e.V. at their polylocal IngenieurBaukunstMuseum.

The aim is to derive possible repurposing scenarios from the building analysis and digital model. The study will explore the structural modifications needed for various uses and identify which components and materials most impact the building's ecological footprint. Ultimately, decisions will be made on whether these elements should be reused, retained, or demolished and disposed of.

Details of the tasks will be specified prior to commencement.

Contact person:
Dipl.-Ing. Tobias Westphal
0351 463 40472

I – 4 Variant study on climate-effective monument reconstruction of Schinkel’s Bauakademie

Reconstructing a non-existent building is considered only if it holds significant cultural and ideological value. Traditional construction methods, like those used for the Dresden Frauenkirche or Notre-Dame Cathedral, are often emulated to honor these values. This thesis examines whether and how the cultural and technical achievements of such buildings can be adapted to today’s climate-related context. After extensive research into existing structures and sustainable building practices, the climate impact of reconstruction will be calculated. A digital model will be used to analyze the ecological footprint of the former Academy. The results will be presented in collaboration with Ingenieur Baukunst e.V. at their polylocal IngenieurBaukunstMuseum.

The goal is to develop several climate-friendly reconstruction variants that also respect the ideological and artistic values of the original building. Based on research and calculated warming potentials, alternative structural systems will be proposed and evaluated for material consumption, circularity, dismantability, and recyclability.

Details of the tasks will be specified prior to commencement.

Contact person:
Dipl.-Ing. Tobias Westphal
0351 463 40472

I – 3 Analysis of realized preservation and conversion projects

Full title: Detailed analysis of realized preservation and conversion projects in non-residential construction

The greatest potential for carbon dioxide (CO₂) savings in the construction industry can be achieved by avoiding the construction of new buildings. The theoretical approach appears to lead to the preservation and conversion of existing buildings. The implementation of various projects has already demonstrated the benefits from an ecological standpoint. What are the necessary steps to successfully implement preservation and conversion projects? It would be beneficial to examine the successes and challenges of completed projects in order to inform future endeavors. This is the point at which the work begins.

At least three completed preservation and conversion projects will be analyzed in detail as part of the thesis. The focus is on buildings that were not initially used for residential purposes, such as the conversion of a factory building into an office complex. The structural, building-physical, space utilization-related, and legal difficulties and special features of the three selected examples are to be analyzed and generally applicable hurdles are to be formulated. Finally, engineering proposals and working methods for overcoming the generally applicable hurdles are to be developed.

Details of the tasks will be specified prior to commencement.

Contact person:
Prof. Dr.-Ing. Yvonne Ciupack
0351 463 41120

I – 2 Material- and construction-dependent maintenance strategies for buildings

Full title: Development of suitable maintenance strategies for buildings, taking into account materiality and construction methods

The materiality and construction methods serve as the foundation for effective conservation and maintenance strategies. Overall, building materials and construction methods exert a significant influence on building conservation, as they significantly impact the structural integrity, functionality, and aesthetics of a building. By considering their properties, aging processes, and challenges, appropriate conservation strategies can be developed and implemented to ensure the long-term integrity and value retention of buildings. Conservation strategies that combine preventative measures, restoration, and adaptation to modern standards are crucial for the long-term preservation of buildings. This is the point at which the work begins in earnest.

In order to identify suitable conservation and maintenance strategies for existing buildings, it is necessary to consider the problem areas, requirements and potential of materiality and construction methods. In order to do this, it is necessary to identify and weigh up the material and construction-related influencing factors. The work will conclude with a proposal for a standardized conservation assessment system.

Details of the tasks will be specified prior to commencement.

Contact person:
Prof. Dr.-Ing. Yvonne Ciupack
0351 463 41120