The historic locomotive circus in Potsdam becomes a modern office complex!

The historic locomotive circus in Potsdam becomes a modern office complex!

An impressive construction project was successfully completed in Potsdam: the conversion of the historic locomotive circus into the modern office complex “Paradome Potsdam”. This step not only marks the saving of an architectural landmark, but also creates space for around 540 jobs on a total usable area of ​​around 16,000 square meters. Before the redesign, the building, which was built in 1899, was threatened with demolition, but thanks to a well-thought-out conversion concept, the former locomotive assembly hall can now continue to be part of the city's history. The […] Federal Real Estate Agency (BImA) has rented the building and will house the Potsdam main customs office here in the future, as the real estate manager reports.

The project was commissioned by the investor community DRIVEN Investment, and the leading planning work was carried out by the renowned Bollinger + Fehlig Architects (BFA) as well as Undkraussconsult and Kniepkamp Architects. Their creative ideas preserved the character of the listed building while at the same time creating modern office space. As the Konii describes, the renovation retained the impressive appearance of the 20 meter high dome with a span of 48 meters that characterizes the building.

Architectural highlights

Special features of the new office complex are the clever design of the entrance area, which was created from the hall's former passage, as well as the construction of a single-story building with an accessible roof that highlights the high dome. The roof itself is made of reinforced concrete and reinterprets the original shed roofs. Targeted facade breakthroughs also ensure a bright and inviting atmosphere in the new offices.

However, the significance of this project goes beyond the construction work. By preserving the historical substance, the project contributes to the city's cultural heritage. As stipulated in the urban monument protection, not only a single building is protected here, but also the entire structure and character of the district is preserved. These programs, developed since the 19th century, demonstrate the importance of telling a city's story and preserving its unique features.

Awards and future prospects

The renovation of the Lok-Circus was awarded a special prize at the DEBV Brownfield Award in 2024, which underlines the high quality of the architects carrying out the work and the successful transformation. This success shows that it is possible to revitalize old buildings with a fresh concept without losing their historical value - a real win-win situation for the city and its residents.

Located a short walk from the Babelsberg S-Bahn station, the Paradome Potsdam is not only a new workplace, but also an attractive example of the development of old industrial buildings into modern usage concepts. It remains exciting to see how this transformation will shape the cityscape of Potsdam and what other projects will follow.