Mürmann – Use of m·connect in Easton House, Berlin
Within the framework of the modernization of the so-called Easton House in Berlin, a building complex housing a hotel and offices, the idea was raised of creating a space-dividing element. With the drafting of a membrane design in three-dimensional form, an architecturally sophisticated solution was found. The bracing of the membrane construction was secured at sixteen anchor points with m.connect tension rod systems, with the addition of four steel cables to affix membrane and mast to the upper and lower anchorage points. The membrane assumes its three-dimensional form by way of a centrally located support. This membrane is a silver-grey, large-mesh web ensuring optimum lighting and creates the desired effect of separate spaces when viewed from above. The use of textiles in construction is now a regular feature in modern 21st century architecture. The German architect Prof. Frei Otto is regarded as the ‘father of membrane architecture’ – he developed textile construction as long as 50 years ago. The possibility of roofing over large surfaces without supports, creating a range of spatial shapes and enabling spectacular effects through the light permeability of some materials are special features of modern membrane architecture.
