In 1950, the obligatory participation of visual artists in state building measures at home and abroad was decreed in the German Bundestag as well as in the parliament of the GDR. Over a period of 70 years, numerous artworks that reflect the politics, society, and architecture as well as the tasks of institutions have been created. The book sheds light on the significance and potentials of building-related art for state authorities and institutions, research institutes, military facilities, and German representation around the world. It discusses its specific aspects, like the creation of the works, as well as their maintenance and preservation, and elucidates how close building-related art can be to day-to-day life-as inspiration, statement, and national visiting card that adds value to architecture.

The Neue Nationalgalerie on the Berlin Kulturforum is an architectural icon as well as the crowning conclusion of architect Ludwig Mies van der Rohe's life work. An outstandingly successful and sensitive refurbishment and modernization project was carried out for the building's most significant overhaul since its opening in 1968. It complies with the requirements of a contemporary museum exhibition facility, as well as monument-preservation guidelines. David Chipperfield Architects developed the renovation concept under the motto of "As much Mies as possible." This publication provides deep insight into the planning, execution, monument preservation, and restoration from the perspective of those involved. The exemplary handling of the historical fabric is presented in design documents and numerous large-format photographs that impressively illustrate the design stage, the construction site, and the refurbishment results. With articles by David Chipperfield, Bernhard Furrer, Gunny Harboe, Joachim Jager, Dirk Lohan, Fritz Neumeyer, Alexander Schwarz, Gerrit Wegener, and some 30 project managers