This paper follows the history of the architectural city planning concept called “Critical Reconstruction” and its application in the city of Berlin from the late 1970s until today, using a district of Berlin called the Friedrichstadt as a case study. A brief overview of historical Berlin city planning and architectural styles is given, along with a short summary of post-World War II approaches to construction. The development of the concept of Critical Reconstruction during the late 1960s by Berlin architect Josef Paul Kleihues is examined, especially as it relates to the backlash against Modernist architectural theories. This is followed by an account of Critical Reconstruction’s applications in West Berlin during the 1980s through the Internationale Bauaustellung (International Building Exhibition). City planning trends in East Berlin during the 1980s, which mirrored those in the West, are also explored, as are challenges faced by the post-reunification city planning officials. Finally, the political and historical significance of Critical Reconstruction’s most recent incarnation as the guiding planning principle for Berlin’s new building and restoration projects is addressed, using examples from the case study area.

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