Conversion of a Berlin flat in an old building

During the conversion of a flat in an old building in Berlin, a compact new floor plan of high spatial quality was to be created on the existing somewhat congested, cramped area. Instead of the existing kitchen with a passage to the bathroom, the owners wanted a larger open kitchen with a dining area. Two separate bathrooms were created, for parents and children. The bathroom ‘en suite’ is directly adjacent to the spacious master bedroom, while the access to the children’s bathroom is in the hallway and can also be used as a guest bathroom.

The proportions of the kitchen have been improved, a counter divides the space and makes it look wider. The large frameless sliding glass door emphasises the open feeling of space. The floor in the converted area was completely renovated, soundproofed and fitted with a continuous linoleum floor covering.

The challenges typical for the field of building in existing contexts in dealing with the existing building fabric could be solved well, above all through the preceding intensive analysis of the existing situation. Compliance with static and fire protection regulations, energy efficiency or economic requirements set a narrow framework for the ‘wish list’ of the client and the architects.

The findings of the analysis were integrated into the design process at an early stage so that an optimised floor plan could be created in terms of usability and spatial quality for the residents.