Blackbox - 2008

Invited competition, Federal Intelligence Service (BND), Berlin
With Sven Kalden

Four large black objects stand on low plinths on the terrace of the Federal Intelligence Service headquarters. Their size is presumptuous, their forms striking. Sphere, pyramid, cube, cylinder. Plato? Newton? Golf ball, Echelon, bunker? They also recall topiaries – the sculpted box trees that were especially popular in the garden culture of the Baroque age. They are positioned in front of the garden facade, whose terrace forms a forecourt with the two lower courtyards.

The volumes are metallic and black. Ventilation shafts, hinged flaps and other elements suggest they are hollow. This case-like character is emphasised by the smooth transition from the volume to its base plate, which is bolted to a counterpart of the same size.
The objects are hard to figure out. Are they just imposing eye-catchers visible from afar (as required in the call for entries!!) or do they hide some unknown content. Are they intended as an outward deterrent, or do they contain a threat directed inwards? Everything is conceivable. Black box.