All images are taken in front of the derelict “SEZ” in Berlin (some info and a video in German). A huge complex with multiple swimming pools, sauna, sports facilities, restaurants, kids areas, badminton courts, bowling lanes, ice rinks(yes multiple) and a gaming arcade. Attached was a park with sun bathing lawns, more sports facilities and a small water park for kids.
Most of the building has fallen into disrepair despite repeated attempts at reviving it. At least some of the sports facilities, a pool and a sauna are available today in parts of the building. The park is still mostly unkempt and fenced in. Of course such a building whose main attraction were the swimming pools must fail if the city decides to build a new competition swimming pool (3rd image at the link) for it’s failed 2000 Olympic bid. A monstrous building made out of even more concrete.
The concrete steps leading to what was the “promenade” of the whole complex. From up there one could enter the large ice rink with an indoor and outdoor arena.
Standing on the “promenade” one can marvel at these concrete planters and drainage channels. I find them beautiful.
More concrete and steel. Even the stones are made from concrete. Germans are very fond of concrete.
Even the planters were concrete. No wood anywhere to be seen. Before the fall of the wall these planters were actually meticulously kept. Now they just collect rain and trash.
The old loading dock to keep this behemoth of sport and leisure supplied with food stuffs and materials. The way to manage the limited supply was to restrict seating in the restaurants. I remember my parents waiting for hours until their “reservation” was up. Reservation was a strange word as half the restaurant was empty all the time. Ah well socialism at work.
The most cheap concrete available with way too much granulate. Barely usable for stairs, planters or even as decoration. Even nature is not excited. But the stairs still stand. But try to avoid falling down. This coarse material rips open your skin and clothes. Trust me I know.
Please tell me if you like this style of photo series with single pictures or the one with galleries.