Rtl Primary Function: Nhazi Ime Ụlọ Ọdụ Redio

Press Kit

Unique Properties

The design of the entire space is linked by a Roter Faden, or common thread in German, a journey into both the world of music and the vibrant German capital. Design elements such as light profiles, neon lights, wall graphics and furniture, all in Rtl trademark red, curl through the center. A Pink Floyd inspired wall features Gold records and award trophies, while meeting rooms styled as famous Berlin bars, shared flats and verdant parks pay homage to the iconic city.

Dimensions & Packaging

The new audio center is home to four radio stations: 104,6 Rtl, 105,5 Spree Radio, 93.6 Jam Fm and Rtl Germany's Hitradio. The total area of the audio center is 2,700 square meters, and it provides space for nearly 200 staff.

Tags

Rtl, radio station, audio center, interior design, music, workplace

Production Technology

To create a loft-like interior, finishes such as gunmetal, plywood and solid wood were used alongside glazed partition walls, perforated cladding panels, faux brick, denim-textured carpets and custom-made graffiti-style murals. Handrails from Berlin U-Bahn add an urban touch. Striking lighting solutions, including custom-made lights resembling microphones and a lighting feature that suggests sunshine filtering through treetops, further evoke both the music industry and city life.

Design Challenge

The project faced two challenges. The production and broadcasting studios required specialised construction including double-studded thick gypsum walls set at angles, and interior glazing set at a slant in order to deliver an optimum sound environment. A second challenge lay in creating interiors that reflect the energy of the music industry and retain an air of timelessness, they should not date too quickly, and also cater for the variety of music styles played by the four stations.

Research

The overall aim of the project was to rethink radio and audio production and to design an inspirational and technologically advanced hub for media industry workers, in which they feel comfortable, motivated and creative. Another important aspect was the integration of four separate music channels, all with their own identities, into one wing of the space, in order to deliver the synergies of one broadcasting house rather than having each station as an individual and unconnected entity.

Inspiration

By relocating to new premises, Rtl, one of the largest media broadcasters in Europe, commissioned a state of the art audio center to house its four Berlin radio stations. Inspired by all things music, the center is designed as an inspirational journey into the world of audio entertainment. Berlin, too, plays an important part in the concept. Interiors reference the gritty, hip nature of the city and its iconic locations to give the center a unique identity.

Project Duration

The project was completed in January 2021. The project duration was 2,5 years. It is located in Berlin, Germany.

Operation Flow

The layout reflects user journeys through the space. The reception is the most public area and gives visitors an insight into the workings of a radio station. The hub, a semi-public space at the heart of the audio center, encourages employees, guests and music stars to get together, socialise and entertain. Office areas have been specifically designed and located to encourage creativity and to improve collaboration and connectivity among staff.

Patents

Project copyrights belong to Evolution Design, 2021

Image Credits

Image #1: Photographer Sebastian Dörken / Max Schroeder, 2021. Image #2: Photographer Sebastian Dörken / Max Schroeder, 2021. Image #3: Photographer Sebastian Dörken / Max Schroeder, 2021. Image #4: Photographer Kevin Schuenemann, 2021. Image #5: Photographer Sebastian Dörken / Max Schroeder, 2021.