ABSTRACT
This chapter explains the paradigm changes with observations on recent developments, accelerating centralization of capital and globalization. In Berlin, the resonance of Jane Jacobs's principles came to full fruition in the context of the International Building Exhibition (IBA). As is well known, the branch of "IBA Old" developed its own approaches to careful urban renewal while the branch of "IBA New" invented the concept of the "critical reconstruction" which aimed for an orientation towards the historic pattern of streets and public spaces, building parcels, urban density and design, social mix as well as a mix of actors and architects. Still, the IBA tried to revitalize the area with the help of the approach of "critical reconstruction". Some of the blocks are reserved for residential use, while movie theaters, shops, hotels, and restaurants add to the overall impression of an urban entertainment destination around the office blocks that forms the heart of the area.
