Ernst-Reuter-Platz

Renovation and modernisation of the fountain basins and fountain technology from the point of view of monument preservation as well as restoration of the square equipment and planting.

In the tradition of representative ornamental squares, Ernst-Reuter-Platz is one of the representatives of the modern type. Following a competition in 1955, the hitherto unadorned, six-street intersection was redesigned. The intersection, formerly known as 'Knie', had been renamed in 1953 in memory of the late Governing Mayor of Berlin Ernst Reuter.
According to the design of the architects Bernhard Hermkes and Werner Düttmann, the round square was laid out in 1956-60 in a clear geometric design. The central island, 120 m wide in diameter, is divided into 10 x 10 m squares, most of which are paved and some of which are planted. The defining element of the square design, however, is the element of water: from 41 fountains it falls into two rectangular basins clad in light blue tiles.
In the axis Großer Stern, Straße des 17. Juni and Bismarckstraße-Kaiserdamm, these water features form a focal point visible from afar and give the square an unmistakable image in Berlin's urban fabric.
Until 1993, these summer water features were in full operation. In the following two years, the 15 m high main fountain still bubbled in the larger basin, the rotating small emitters had already ceased their activity. In 1996 and 1997, the basins were merely filled - with a monthly water change - to conceal the poor condition of the tiles.
The 1998 renovation of the fountain and square area included the restoration of the basins with a light blue coat of paint and the renewal of all water and fountain technology, including the fountain lighting. The planting areas were restored according to historical planting plans, so that the perennial and rose plantings now present themselves in the original colour concept.