A place for dialogue

In May 2025, the Helmholtz Center Munich opened a new conference center for national and international events at its Neuherberg site. The historic hall of the Radiation Protection and Physics research division, built in the early 1970s, was transformed into a modern, open space for knowledge exchange, communication, and encounters. Public accessibility, flexible room layouts, and inviting architecture make this transformation visible and tangible. Of particular importance was the preservation of the wide-span, delicate roof structure made of two prestressed reinforced concrete half-shells. Maintaining these original structural elements preserves the identity and history of the site. Also worth seeing is the artwork "On the Shoulders of Giants," a light installation in the stairwell of the conference center's existing 30-meter-high tower.

Precisely designed, high-quality handrail lighting guides visitors safely up to the lecture hall. NauticProfil® LED Sta. Maria lines provide even, glare-free illumination of the steps, creating a modern, sophisticated look. The warm white light contrasts with the dark surfaces, highlights the clean lines of the architecture, and emphasizes the materiality of the metal, glass, and concrete construction.

The colorful light reflections created by the light art in the upper part of the stairwell do not distract the eye, but rather provide a deliberate counterpoint to the strictly geometric and monochromatic architecture. They act as a visual softening and bring a certain lightness to the clear structure.

The lighting concept is both functional and emotional, keeping the room in balance – a combination that works.