Centre at Potsdamer Platz, Berlin

Workspace (formerly Sony Center])

No noise. The Centre at Potsdamer Platz, formely Sony Center, has been extensively redeveloped by Kinzo Architects for a global consultancy firm. The revitalisation of the Centre focussed on »New Work, Culture and Lifestyle«: stylish, comfortable and highly functional.

GraviVent was chosen for the air conditioning of the offices and conference rooms. The silent gravity cooling system is based on the principle of natural convection and requires no additional fans. The low-maintenance and fully recyclable system is normally installed behind plasterboard walls. In this case, however, the wall surfaces were also intended to fulfil an acoustic function and, through their materiality, ensure a particularly pleasant environment.

Together, Kinzo and TTC developed a solution that combines technical, acoustic and aesthetic requirements. The GraviVent elements are concealed here behind acoustically effective, micro-perforated wooden panels. The air ducts required for the cooling system also act as a buffer space to reduce noise. An additional insulation layer completes the structure and ensures optimal room acoustics. The result is impressive to see, hear and feel in every respect.

The timber panelling design is just one example of the possibilities offered by GraviVent x Acoustics. Structures made of PET felt, perforated sheet metal or fabric coverings are also suitable as visible panels.