The building was originally a transformer station of the G.E.B. (municipal power company). It was built in 1935, a small gas-tight air-raid shelter under the building proves that it was a turbulent time. During World War 2 a V2 bomb failed to launch properly and fell right next to this building, instantly killing some people who had sought shelter in a different air-raid shelter. Some houses were completely gone but the transformer station just survived.
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I’ve had my eye on this building for years. I saw it fall into disrepair more and more and tried to figure out how to get in. The courtyard was blocked by a huge gate which was always locked. I tried to figure out ways of climbing over rooftops to get there but always doubted if it would be worth the risk. Then one day, the gate was taken out and replaced by a fence, and demolition slowly began. I knew this was the last chance. The only problem was that it was right at one of the main roads which is always very busy, and going early in the morning wasn’t an option because the demolition crew started early. I went there three days in a row after working hours but didn’t dare to climb the fence in front of dozens of people. On day four I decided to go for it. Once inside I was surprised that so much was still intact. It wasn’t beautiful but it was fun to explore, and the many good memories people got from looking at the photos made it all worthwile!