GRETCHEN

About the Project
Gretchen has been located on the so-called Dragonerareal in Berlin-Kreuzberg since 2011. The 4.7-hectare site is being developed from a former military barracks into a new urban neighbourhood. With residential buildings planned in direct proximity to the club, sound insulation has become an important issue. This project is the second soundproofing measure implemented at Gretchen as part of the ongoing development of the site.

Initial Situation
With the neighbouring residential development moving closer to the club, measures were needed to prevent potential noise conflicts and ensure compliance with the permitted emission levels. In cooperation with the relevant authorities, it was therefore agreed that sound locks would be installed at Gretchen. As part of this project, a sound lock was installed at one of the entrances.

Measures

1. Sound Lock at the Entrance
A sound lock was installed in front of one of the entrances. It creates an additional acoustically shielded area between the interior and exterior spaces and prevents excessive sound from escaping when the entrance door is opened.

Result
The sound lock allows guests to continue accessing the outdoor area without the opening of the door causing the permitted emission levels to be exceeded. At the same time, the measure fulfils a requirement set out as part of the development plan.

The implementation was initially delayed because the sound lock had to be redesigned after construction had begun. In addition, an old cobblestone road was discovered when the asphalt was removed and had to be examined by the heritage protection authorities. Material shortages and long delivery times caused further delays.