UMBAU (conversion) means the ongoing transformation of existing structures. Given today’s climate goals, UMBAU needs to become the rule rather than the exception. The exhibition by the architects von Gerkan, Marg, and Partners (gmp) presents a selection of the more than sixty projects in gmp’s forty years of UMBAU experience as specific examples of current UMBAU practices that deal with the architectural heritage of the 20th century.

What the projects have in common is the conceptual approach to UMBAU which, starting from a comprehensive inventory of the existing, continues and further develops the old as an architectural evolution. In practice, UMBAU must also integrate overlays and new suppositions. UMBAU is not unique, but continues into the future as a nonstop transformation, as a project of social sustainability spanning generations. “UMBAU. Nonstop Transformation” debuted in Venice in 2023.

The exhibition is part of the program of Archtober and Open House New York Weekend.

Founded in 1965, von Gerkan, Marg and Partners Architects (gmp) is an architectural practice with branches worldwide. With a generalist approach and more than 50 years of experience, gmp completes projects in dialogue with clients and participating planning disciplines, at all scales and cultural contexts, covering all design phases and working on all continents. The range of projects extends from single-family residences to high-rise buildings, from stadiums to concert halls, from office buildings to bridges, and from door hardware to urban planning. With holistic sustainability in mind, gmp aims to create new and refurbished architecture that is long-lasting and goes beyond temporary fashions, taking into account the global challenges and issues of urbanization, digitalization, and mobility. In the firm’s designs, gmp remains committed to climate-aware construction in accordance with certified standards and to building in existing contexts.

Through November 6
Goethe-Institut New York
80 Irving Place
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