The elements of Ernst-Reuter-Platz are in a seemingly incoherent state. To renovate and carve out its dependencies and to develop the space into a conclusive structure, is the task that the site places on us. The idea of a cumulative city formed by building structures,  which loosely blends with public space, can only be recognized here in its early approaches. As an urban figure along the east-west axis of Berlin, it lacks the weight to equilibrate the asymmetrical balance of power towards Berlin’s old town to the west.

The idea to use Ernst-Reuter-Platz as a location for the new central and state library marks its claim to a higher significance within the city of Berlin. As an entrance to Berlin from the West, Ernst-Reuter-Platz has to do more for society than being pure infrastructure. The space needs a benefit that meets the demands of today’s knowledge society, giving it the meaning of being a center of Berlin.