Rheinpark-Metropole, Cologne

In 1928, the Rheinhallen were built in Cologne on the right bank of the Rhine, directly opposite Cologne Cathedral. A good 77 years later, the complex, which until then had been used as exhibition halls, was returned to the city of Cologne. At that time, the broadcaster RTL had already been confirmed as the tenant. The broadcaster uses 80,000 m² of the total gross floor area of 160,000 m² for offices, a broadcasting center and two TV studios. In terms of total floor area, the Rheinhallen is the largest office building in Germany. A particular challenge was the listed brick façade, the old trade fair tower and the cour d'honneur. These parts of the building, which are protected as historic monuments, had to be preserved. Therefore, the complete core was removed and replaced by a new comb-like structure.

The majority of the interior walls are lightweight partition walls. These allow flexible partitioning of the office space. However, the expected ceiling drop and the associated installation of the ventilation and air-conditioning systems are problematic in this context.

Sliding ceiling connections are required if floor deflections of more than 10 mm are expected. Loads on partition walls below must be prevented with an appropriate connection. Especially in buildings with high fire protection requirements or large ceiling loads, these connections are essential and require special attention.