UMBAU. Nonstop Transformation
Exhibition by gmp - Opening in Munich on November 13, 2025
Exhibition at the Architekturgalerie München
November 13 - December 06, 2025
Opening: November 13, 2025, 7:00 pm
Speakers at the opening:
Nicola Borgmann, Architekturgalerie München
Volkwin Marg, Founding Partner gmp
Stephan Schütz, Executive Partner gmp
UMBAU (conversion) means the continuous transformation of existing structures. Just as societies change, so do the demands placed on architecture. In the context of this ongoing process of change, those who reuse and recycle materials and components save resources, avoid waste, and use the gray energy stored in existing buildings. Hence UMBAU, an ancient cultural technique, is gaining new relevance in the face of climate change.
For fifty years, von Gerkan, Marg and Partners Architects (gmp) have been engaging in UMBAU. Nine of nearly one hundred conversion projects are presented here as specific case studies. The selection represents the wide range of concepts that are possible when dealing with the architectural heritage of the 20th century and invites comparison in many ways: on display are two stadiums, two concert halls, two office and administrative buildings, two projects in planning, two shell structures, two conversions, and, as a special focus, two Munich projects—the Gasteig HP8 with the Isarphilharmonie and Hall E, and the European Patent Office.
Collectively, the examples illustrate gmp’s architectural approach to UMBAU: from a comprehensive exploration, concepts are developed that ensure contemporary use. From conceptual origin through UMBAU to everyday use, the exhibition highlights the stages in the ongoing transition that continues as a Nonstop Transformation, a collaboration that spans generations.
UMBAU. Nonstop Transformation has already been shown with changing foci in Venice, Hamburg, Berlin, New York, and Shanghai. At the Architekturgalerie München, for the first time, a venue undergoing transformation provides the architectural setting.
Exhibition
November 13 - December 06, 2025, Wed – Sat 3:00 – 7:00 pm
Free admission
Architekturgalerie München im Bunker
Blumenstrasse 22
80331 München
More about UMBAU. Nonstop Transformation and the accompanying program on:
https://umbau.gmp.de
https://www.architekturgalerie-muenchen.de
With the kind support of
ERCO
