Sometimes, the most prestigious, prominent sites need to be approached with the greatest sensitivity, care and attention before development can begin. Such is the case with Kudamm Karree, located on the famous shopping boulevard – The Kurdurstendamm – and incorporating 46,000 sq m of retail, leisure and entertainment space, a new theatre, and 230 residential units. A wonderful brief for David Chipperfield Architects, but one for which it was essential first to win the wholehearted support of the city, Kudamm Karree is a defining example of much needed urban fabric renewal.