I was based at Templehof in 1990-1991 with Templehof Airways doing air ambulance flights for Deutsch Rettungsflug (German Air Rescue). In fact, I took my Lear ATP type ride there with an FAA examiner from Frankfort. So, I have many fond memories of the airfield.
The building is simply amazing and should be kept open as a landmark. One morning I met an elderly gentleman at an outdoor cafe whose uncle had designed the building. He left and came back a few minutes later with a book of pictures and sketches of the plans. Many people don't know this, but the building was not complete. If you look at the original plans, the footprint of the building was to resemble the German eagle. The wings were done and one leg, but the eagle is virtually unrecognizable now.
Sad to hear it's all shut down.
Does anyone know what happened to the Sonari Choir that had a rehearsal hall/pub in the building?