Since its inauguration in 1973, the Congress Center Hamburg (CCH) has been a landmark venue, hosting iconic events and welcoming renowned artists like ABBA, Deep Purple, and Queen. After nearly five decades, the CCH underwent a transformative revitalization and expansion, breathing new life into its storied halls. Awarded the project in 2014, the ARGE agn leusmann / Tim Hupe Architekten workgroup spearheaded the endeavor, culminating in the grand reopening in 2022, marking a new chapter in the venue’s illustrious history.
Architectural Vision
Tim Hupe Architekten led the design, approval, and detailed planning process, envisioning a modernized space that honors the venue’s heritage while embracing its future. Tim Hupe describes the project as a “wonderful task” to revitalize and enhance a once-forgotten site near the city center, adjacent to the scenic Planten un Blomen park and the Radisson Blu hotel. The redevelopment of Dag-Hammarskjöld-Platz and Marseiller Promenade further positions the CCH as a global destination in the heart of Hamburg.
Seamless Integration
The new building seamlessly integrates old and new event spaces, forming a cohesive sequence that enhances visitor experience. The redesigned entrance hall, accessible via Congressplatz, leads to the elevated “Belvedere” via an atrium, creating a harmonious transition between levels. This podium-like configuration extends the “Belvedere” to the main facade, blending architectural form with urban context to create a welcoming space for gatherings and interactions.
Transparency and Connection
Central to the design is the extensive use of glass, forging a strong connection between interior and exterior spaces. The facade serves not only as a structural element but also as a spatial layer, inviting park views and infusing the interior with natural light. Horizontal ceiling panels, acting as “brise soleil,” mediate between the “Belvedere” and the park, offering glimpses of the surrounding landscape while maintaining a sense of shelter and privacy.
In the Revitalization of Congress Center Hamburg, Hupe Flatau Partner has seamlessly merged architectural innovation with historical preservation, ensuring that the CCH remains a beacon of culture, entertainment, and community for generations to come.
