House A

Berlin, Germany

Add To Collection

House A

Berlin, Germany

Firm

studio D architects

Type

Residential › Apartment

STATUS

Built

YEAR

2023

SIZE

0 sqft - 1000 sqft

BUDGET

$100K - 500K

The European architecture embodies its essence, leaving an indelible mark. As a mode of thinking, it conjures the imagery of carving out space from a colossal rock from the stratum of the European continent. The sensation of being enclosed within such a space is simultaneously comforting, reassuring, and imbued with a profound sense of substance. In this meaningful presence, we as architects are always required to think how our planning and design will behave and co-exist in the given environment and context.

This undertaking involved renovating a four-decade-old apartment. The client requested a reorganization of the space, including the washroom area and enhancing the storage capacity. The existing space bore the imprint of the owners' affinity for various motifs from East Asian cultures, with numerous elements reflecting their influence. While the space exuded richness and allure through its distinctive elements, it appeared excessively dim, weighty, stagnant, and oppressive for contemporary living, imposing its dominant presence. Yet, it also held significant valuable testament to the past.

Within this project, the somber and weighty elements of the past recede gradually, making way for fresh, brighter, and lighter components to inhabit the space. In essence, it involves the notion of overlaying a new surface layer while simultaneously shaving a portion of the historical stratum. Unlike the solid and monumental rock, this endeavor embodies a "layering over time," akin to the gradual accumulation of soft earth layers over the passage of years, reminiscent of the Japanese earth.

The new incorporated volumetric elements emanate a vibrant luminosity and a feeling of weightlessness. Their purpose is to restructure the space, fostering an elevated sense of freedom and facilitating the development of a renewed relationship with the preexisting elements by making their presence known. As the former elements gradually recede, carrying their substantial presence, they sustain the previously established connection with the space while also infusing depth into the newly emerged environment. The interplay between these two sets of elements gives birth to a distinctive rhythmic flow and seamless continuity, giving rise to a fresh visual and kinetic sequence that ultimately nurtures a renewed sense of harmony within the space.

The finalized space no longer carries the weight it once did, and we anticipate that the client will experience a greater sense of freedom. As the client's family continues to reside within this newly established layer of strata, we envision and hope that over time, additional layers of strata will accumulate atop this existing layer.

Product Spec Sheet

Were your products used?

Join as a manufacturer to add your products.

Collaborating Firms

Was your firm involved? Add it now.

Team

Were you involved? Add yourself.

Keep Exploring Architizer by Creating a Free Account or Logging in.

House A

Berlin, Germany

House A

Berlin, Germany

Product Spec Sheet

Collaborating Firms

Team