The historic THF Tower at the former Berlin Tempelhof Airport becomes a panoramic observation platform

Established in 1923, Berlin's Tempelhof Airport has played a major role in German history. First during the Second World War, Tempelhof housed a concentration camp, where prisoners worked on the construction of civil and military aircraft. Then, during the Cold War, during the land blockade of Berlin imposed by the Soviets between 1948 and 1949, the airport was the destination of an airlift, set up by the Allies to transport supplies to West Berlin . During this operation, numerous flights were made daily to provide food and supplies to citizens. Tempelhof became the key to their survival, and a true symbol of freedom.

After the fall of the Berlin Wall, Tempelhof Airport resumed commercial activities. It then experienced a gradual decline, competing with Tegel and Schönefeld airports. With losses running into the millions, it closed its doors for good on October 30, 2008. It was then converted into a public park in May 2010.

Opened to the public on July 20, the new installation of the THF tower marks an important step in the rehabilitation work of the former aeronautical center. The Kebony wooden roof terrace opens a new exhibition and events space. It offers visitors not only a breathtaking view of the skyscrapers of the German capital, but also a vast platform to discover the program of cultural events organized at the airport, in particular forums, concerts – like the annual Tempelhof Sounds festival – or even sporting events, such as the Prix de Berlin.

The historic character of the building mixed with modern construction requirements presented a unique challenge for architects :mlzd and designers Karle & Rubner. For the roof terrace, which visitors access via a suspended steel staircase which originates in the central terminal, technical and aesthetic characteristics were essential in the choice of construction material. The installation had to meet quality and durability criteria and withstand intensive use.

Kebony Clear cladding was selected to give the space a durable and visually sophisticated finish. Developed in Norway, Kebony wood offers a sustainable alternative to tropical hardwoods, helping to reduce the world's dependence on traditional building materials, thereby reducing environmental damage caused by deforestation. Through the production of dually modifiedTM wood, from sustainable softwoods such as pine, Kebony offers architects a wooden product with the same construction characteristics as protected wood species such as Ipe and Cumaru, without the footprint associated carbon.

Kebony's patented modification process improves the dimensional stability of wood cell walls. Over time, its surface develops a silvery gray patina which gives it depth and character. These unique qualities make Kebony an ideal solution for projects such as the THF Tower roof terrace, which are constantly exposed to the elements but nevertheless demand the highest standards of aesthetics, durability and environmental friendliness .

The successful implementation of the THF Tower project is a demonstration of the innovative ways in which historic, carbon-intensive industrial sites, such as disused airports, can be repurposed into new social and sustainable contexts.

Tempelhof Airport, Head Building West, Tempelhofer Damm 45, 12101 Berlin

• Design: 600 m² of roof terrace located at a height of 26 m, construction using ramps and steps
• Terrace: Kebony Clear boards
• Substructure: Isostep system rails to support wind load and fire protection components

For Pat Tanner, architect for :mlzd: “Our choice to use Kebony wood in the design of the Tempelhof Tower was obvious, as we wanted to create a space that was both functional and aesthetic. The robust qualities of this wood are ideal for withstanding the large number of visitors who wander through it every day. Not only is it aesthetically pleasing, but it is also an incredibly durable product that will stand the test of time. »

For Nina Landbø, International Sales Director for Kebony: “We are proud that Kebony has been chosen to be part of the next chapter of the iconic Tempelhof Airport. Transforming a former carbon emissions site into a stunning leisure facility is a fantastic concept. We congratulate all partners involved in the realization of this project, and hope that visitors will appreciate not only the view, but also the conscious and sustainable design of this environment. »