Hyparschale in Magdeburg,
design: gmp Architekten
The Hyparschale in Magdeburg, built in 1969 to a design by Ulrich Müther, is a masterpiece of modernist architecture that, after years of neglect, has regained its role thanks to a 2019-2024 renovation by the gmp Architekten studio. Listed as a historic landmark in 1998, the building is distinguished by a roof composed of four hyperbolic paraboloids - surfaces of double curvature, reminiscent of a saddle, which combine the austerity of concrete with dynamic form. Commissioned by the Magdeburg authorities, the modernization restored the hall's functionality and made it a model example of post-war renovation.
The Hyparschale in Magdeburg was built in 1969 to a design by Ulrich Müther
photo by Marcus Bredt © gmp Architekten
From the past into the future - the genesis of the Hyparschale
During the era of the German Democratic Republic, when new architectural forms capable of matching global trends were being sought, the Hyparschale in Magdeburg became a symbol of technical daring. Its designer, Ulrich Müther, pioneered the construction of concrete shells, drawing inspiration from the work of such masters as Félix Candela and Heinz Isler. Erected on the east bank of the Elbe River, in the heart of Rotehornpark, the hall was to serve as a multifunctional center - from exhibitions to sports events. The roof, made up of four hyperbolic paraboloids measuring 24×24 meters each, stretched 48×48 meters without internal supports, making it one of the largest of its kind in the world in 1969.
Hyparschale in Magdeburg - erected on the east bank of the Elbe River, the hall was intended to serve as a multifunctional center - from exhibitions to sports events
photo Müther-Archiv an der Hochschule © gmp Architekten
The project was made possible thanks to Müther's collaboration with Magdeburg-based architect Horst Freytag and contractor Gerling & Rausch. The hall quickly became a lively place, hosting fairs, shows and television broadcasts. However, after German reunification, the building fell into disrepair, and its technical condition in the 1990s precluded use. The listing of the Hyparschale as a historic landmark in 1998 opened the way for efforts to save it, although for the next two decades there was a lack of funding and vision for the future of the building.
Hyparschale in Magdeburg - for two decades there was a lack of funding and vision for the future of the site.
Photo Müther-Archiv an der Hochschule © gmp Architekten
Hyparschale architecture - geometry and lightness
The heart of Hyparschale is the roof - four hyperbolic paraboloids that form a harmonious, doubly curved surface. Each segment rests on the corners of the hall, rising to a height of almost 16 meters at the highest points and 12 meters in the center. This design not only provides stability, but also allows for a spacious interior free of pillars, which was crucial for the flexibility of the space.
Hyparschale in Magdeburg - the facade of the building
photo by Marcus Bredt © gmp Architekten
The original façade consisted of industrial glazing that diffused light, creating a subtle play of shadows in the interior. Construction of the roof required an innovative sprayed concrete technique that gave the shell, which was only 7 centimeters thick, a fluid, organic shape. The process involved continuously applying concrete to wooden formwork, allowing the curved surfaces to be precisely mapped. Below ground, the four shells were connected by beams, ensuring structural integrity.
A plan of the Hyparschale in Magdeburg
© gmp Architekten
The interior of the hall, with an area of nearly 2,300 square meters, was designed with versatility in mind. It could have served as both an exhibition space and a sports arena. Unfortunately, after the facility closed in the 1990s, Hyparschale became a symbol of the forgotten heritage of post-war modernism, waiting for a chance at a new life.
Hyparschale in Magdeburg - a bird's eye view of the building and the city
photo by Marco Dziallas Ostmodern © gmp Architekten
renovation - a dialogue between tradition and modernity
The breakthrough came in 2017, when Magdeburg authorities announced a competition for the renovation of the Hyparschale. The winning design by the gmp office stood out for its sensitivity to the historic character of the building and its vision for its contemporary use. The work, divided into two phases, began in 2019. The first phase, which lasted until 2021, focused on the restoration of the roof, while the second, until 2024, included the modernization of the facade and the remodeling of the interior.
Hyparschale in Magdeburg - drawing of the facade
© gmp Architekten
The biggest challenge was the renovation of the roof shell, whose thin structure had suffered from years of neglect. Leaks in the skylights, originally filled with glass blocks, accelerated the degradation of the concrete. The gmp team, in cooperation with engineers from CARBOCON, used innovative carbon concrete - a material composed of fine-grained concrete and carbon fiber mesh. Using this technology, it was possible to restore the shell while maintaining its original thickness of 7 centimeters, and even increase its load-bearing capacity by 50 percent. The restoration process included sandblasting the surface, repairing damage and precisely applying layers of concrete, which allowed the roof to maintain its proportions in accordance with conservation requirements.
Hyparschale in Magdeburg - the biggest challenge was the renovation of the roof shell
Photo: Marcus Bredt © gmp Architekten
The facade of the Hyparschale also underwent a metamorphosis. The place of semi-transparent glazing has been taken by transparent sheets of glass, which open the interior to the surrounding park and the Elbe River. The new layout retained the vertical rhythm of the original structure, enriching it with slender steel elements that add a contemporary touch to the facade.
Hyparschale in Magdeburg
photo by Marcus Bredt © gmp Architekten
a new role in the urban landscape
The renovated Hyparschale is now a multifunctional cultural center that combines its architectural heritage with modern needs. Large glazing integrates the interior with the surrounding nature, while the minimalist aesthetic emphasizes the prestigious nature of the building. Its location in Rotehornpark, amid tall grass and trees, creates a contrast between the geometric volume and the organic landscape. Glazing allows for a seamless dialogue between the interior and exterior, reinforcing the impression of lightness and dynamism. The building, while retaining its autonomous form, harmonizes with Magdeburg's landscape. Its soaring silhouette, with roofs that converge at sharp angles, contrasts with the softness of its natural surroundings, yet invites the public inside, offering views of the park and river. Such a treatment underscores Hyparschale's versatility - it is both a work of architectural art and a space open to the community.
Hyparschale in Magdeburg - interior view
photo by Marcus Bredt © gmp Architekten
a model for the future
The Hyparschale in Magdeburg is not only a restored monument, but also an example of how contemporary architecture can draw on its post-war heritage. The gmp project proves that GDR-era buildings, often overlooked in the discourse on monuments, have the potential to become an important part of the urban fabric. The use of carbon concrete opens up new possibilities in the preservation of similar structures, and the hall's flexible layout responds to dynamic cultural and social needs. In a broader context, Hyparschale becomes a symbol of reflection on the preservation of post-war buildings. With many of them under threat of demolition, the Magdeburg project shows how to combine respect for history with innovation. The building has not only survived, but has gained a new identity, staying true to Müther's vision while responding to the challenges of the present day.
Hyparschale in Magdeburg - view from the Elbe side
photo by Marcus Bredt © gmp Architekten
modernism reinvigorated
The renovation, completed in June 2024, restores the luster of one of Ulrich Müther's most important works, while also paving the way for other restoration projects. The building, with its unique form, modern materials and harmony with its surroundings, inspires architects and residents alike. It proves that the heritage of modernism can not only survive, but also actively shape modern cities.
Compiled by: Anastazja Dżupina
Illustrations provided courtesy of gmp Architekten.
