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Places to See: Reichstag Dome Berlin

There are several approaches to architectural design. Some say good design starts with inspiration. Others say it starts with a question. Well known architect, Norman Foster and his team used a little of both when they began working on the Reichstag.

According to Foster, they sought to answer four questions: What is the significance of the Bundestag as a democratic forum? How do we demonstrate Reichstag’s commitment to public accessibility? How do we incorporate a sensitivity to history? And, how do we include a rigorous environmental agenda? One look at the dome and it appears Foster answered these issues by integrating a progressive ethos within the design of the Reichstag.

Standing as a symbol of Germany’s reunification – the structure’s innate transparency, placement above parliament where the public can view government’s inner workings and its innovative use of sunlight for energy efficiency suggests that Foster and Partners accomplished a few of their sought after answers.