ABSTRACT
This paper explores the conceptualisation and design of a prefabricated, concrete modular system within the building sector in the last decade of the former GDR. The system called Riegellose Bauweise Cottbus (RBC) originated from an academic group and promised a more versatile, time- and money-saving system for non-residential buildings. After the conception of the core principles between 1978 and 1983, the experimental work up to the erection of prototypes lasted for another six years. The development of the RBC was ultimately abandoned during the revolution of 1989–90. This paper reconstructs the development process and provides insight into the motivations and backgrounds of the developers. They faced serious resource constraints due to the state’s centrally planned economy. Thus, the strategies dealing with the challenges are analysed and include interactions between industry, research, and education as well as between formal and informal networks.
