Restoration of the free-form timber shell roof with minimal intervention
Project
The Sonnensegel, designed by Behnisch Architekten, was built in 1969 for the Federal Garden Exhibition in Dortmund’s Westfalenpark. Originally conceived as a temporary demonstration of innovative timber construction, the structure had to be closed in 2013 due to severe damage. Demolition was under consideration. However, a feasibility study initiated by the Wüstenrot Foundation and developed by knippershelbig demonstrated the potential for a heritage-sensitive restoration. The objective was to re-establish the structural performance with minimal intervention while preserving the original substance. The restoration was successfully completed in May 2020.
Project data
Client Stadt Dortmund
Architect HWR Architekten
Finalization 2021
Services structural engineering, special structures
