Renovating Modernism. Less is More: Renovating the Bauhaus in Dessau

The Bauhaus building in Dessau has weathered a century of extraordinary change. Berlin-based Brenne Architekten will discuss the restoration of this and other modernist landmarks.

The Bauhaus building in Dessau, designed by Isokon-resident-to-be Walter Gropius as the embodiment of Bauhaus ideas, was first opened in 1926. A bold, experimental approach to construction, and the radical use of materials such as reinforced concrete and large expanses of glass, lend the building a characteristic transparency and grace. Not only does the building embody the Bauhaus manifesto, it also embodies the spirit of modern architecture, and is justifiably included in UNESCO’s World Heritage List.

A century on from its construction, the Bauhaus building has weathered extraordinary changes. It sustained serious damage in World War 2, and was largely restored in 1976. A complete renovation carried out between 1996 and 2006 granted the building yet another life, allowing it to be opened to the public and used as a venue for exhibitions and events focused on the history of the Bauhaus. Subsequent modifications have addressed the issue of rising energy costs and further changes in the building’s use.

Join Berlin-based Brenne Architekten for a discussion about this project and some of their other restoration work, which includes significant modernist landmarks such as the former ADGB Trade Union School in Bernau and the Kandinsky-Klee Master House in Dessau.

Doors will open at 6 pm, when complimentary drinks will be served. The lecture will begin at 6.30 pm. The Isokon Gallery shop will be open between 6 pm and 8.30 pm.

#architecture #heritage #restoration #bauhaus #modernism #gropius

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