Elbphilharmonie Hamburg

Interesting facts

1. 1

   The Grand Hall uses 10,000 individually shaped gypsum fiber panels to diffuse sound waves for optimal acoustics.

2. 2

   The base of the building, the Kaispeicher A, was designed by architect Werner Kallmorgen and opened in 1966.

3. 3

   The building's signature 'wave' roof rises to a height of 108 meters at its highest point.

4. 4

   The glass facade features tiny grey dots to reflect sunlight and prevent birds from colliding with the building.

5. 5

   The building is officially known as a 'Cultural Monument' by the city of Hamburg.

6. 6

   The interior escalator to the Plaza is 82 meters long and curved, one of the longest in Europe.

Overview

The Elbphilharmonie is a landmark concert hall constructed atop the historic Kaispeicher A, a former cocoa, tea, and tobacco warehouse. Its design features a curved glass facade meant to resemble waves, sitting on a brick base that dates back to the 1960s. The structure houses two concert halls, a luxury hotel, and private apartments. The Grand Hall is acoustically isolated from the rest of the building via high-performance steel springs to dampen harbor vibrations. Visitors can access the 'Plaza,' a public observation deck located 37 meters above ground level that separates the old warehouse from the modern glass extension. The building's exterior utilizes 1,000 curved glass panels, each uniquely shaped.

Insider tips

• Book your Plaza ticket online in advance to skip queues at the ticket machine.

• Bring a windproof jacket for the observation deck, as it is exposed to strong gusts from the river.

• Visit the gift shop for high-quality architectural models and local design goods.