Wednesday 8 July 2015

The (Crumbling) Philharmonic Hall

One of Berlin's most famous buildings is falling apart. The Philharmonic Hall, designed by the legendary Hans Scharoun - opened in 1963 - is in dire need of a face-lift, though I'm not sure a mere face-lift will actually suffice to halt its dilapidation. It's utterly sad to observe that austerity in this country is pushed to such limits, that the repair of one of the buildings Berlin and Germany are most known for, is not just put off  - it's not even in the cards!


... the paint is coming off the railings ... 


... stone and concrete are looking ugly and weather-beaten ...  


... the same goes for the portholes ...


... and all the metal needs to be replaced ...


I hope that some German official soon has the common sense to come up with a master-plan for the Philharmonic Hall's renovation. It is sad to see it going to pieces, especially since the music that is offered inside is of such outstanding quality, a quality which, inexcusably, isn't reflected in the building's upkeep. 

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