The tower was originally topped by a rotating beacon to signal the presence of the Borsig factory complex.
It is built on a steel skeleton frame, a revolutionary engineering technique for industrial administrative buildings at the time.
The structure survived World War II with minimal damage, unlike many other industrial sites in the city.
The bricks used for the facade are clinker bricks, chosen for their durability and specific aesthetic color profile.
The tower is located within the Borsigpark, which occupies the grounds of the former massive locomotive production site.
The Borsigturm, located in the Tegel district of Berlin, is recognized as the first high-rise industrial building in Germany. Completed in 1924 by architect Eugen Schmohl, the tower was designed as an administrative headquarters for the Borsig locomotive works. It stands 65 meters tall and features a distinctive expressionist brick facade. The structure is part of a larger industrial heritage site that includes surrounding historical factory halls now repurposed for retail and office use. Its design incorporates vertical strips of windows that emphasize the height of the steel-framed construction. The tower remains a prominent landmark in northern Berlin, reflecting the transition of the Borsig family business into the 20th century.
From the pedestrian plaza directly in front of the main entrance to capture the full verticality of the brick facade.
Combine your visit with a walk through the adjacent Hallen am Borsigturm shopping center to see the integrated historical architecture.
Look for the original Borsig factory clock preserved nearby.
Walk around the perimeter to view the varying architectural details of the brickwork from different angles.
Do not attempt to enter private office areas within the tower, as it remains a functional commercial building.
The exterior can be viewed at any time; interior access is restricted to the commercial lobby area.
