AN32

In the heart of Berlin’s historic industrial landscape lies a remarkable transformation—a former workshop, built in 1880, now reimagined into a vibrant, family-friendly residence. Tucked between the city’s iconic second and third courtyards, this heritage-listed brick building had sat unused for years, its raw charm waiting to be rediscovered. The original structure retained its Wilhelminian-era character, featuring vaulted ceilings, cast-iron columns, and steel beams that embodied the rugged beauty of its time. The renovation celebrated these elements, blending them seamlessly with contemporary architecture.

A Village in the Courtyard

Two minimalist, cube-like volumes were introduced within the expansive hall, connected by a sleek, modern staircase. These structures house essential functions such as storage and bathrooms, while the upper level of one cube creates a cozy, elevated living area—a private nook within the open-plan layout. This design strikes a perfect balance between preserving the building’s historical integrity and adapting it for modern living. The grandeur of the industrial space is maintained, while intimate, functional zones cater to the practical needs of a growing family.

The result is a home that tells a story—of history, transformation, and timeless design. A Village in the Courtyard is a striking example of how Berlin’s architectural legacy can be thoughtfully woven into contemporary life, creating spaces that inspire while remaining rooted in the city’s rich past.

Every Phase, Every Detail

We handled every phase of construction, from the initial sketches to selecting the curtains, ensuring that every detail was carefully considered. The challenge of this project was to create a more family-friendly home, with three bedrooms: a master suite and two children’s rooms that share a central bathroom. A large open-plan kitchen space was envisioned as the heart of the family’s activities, while playful volumes and an elevated living area offer an inviting atmosphere. The project took approximately two years to complete, as despite the existing exterior shell, we had to entirely rebuild the structure to integrate the 100-square-meter basement with the ground floor, adding natural light in the process.

This might not be immediately visible in the photos, but beneath the terrace, which was completely demolished and reconstructed 30 cm higher, there is a large playroom that houses musical instruments, a foosball table, and a private sauna. It also connects to a private gym.

The transformation of this space recalls the loft of Lonely Boy in Gossip Girl, with its industrial charm and contemporary flair. Indeed, Berlin’s urban landscape often evokes a New York vibe—where history and modernity coexist, raw spaces are reimagined, and the cosmopolitan spirit of the city mirrors that of the Big Apple.