project management preliminary planning, design and permission planning for a new two-storey attic extension for a private residence renovation of the façade and renovation and extension of a coach house for GRAFT architects

The two-storey new attic construction replaces the existing roof and creates a separate maisonette with a clear spatial identity above the fourth floor. Access is via the existing staircases and an additional external lift on the courtyard side. A recessed patio on the sixth floor creates a sheltered outdoor space and gives the upper level a striking spatial centre.

The façades of the maisonette respond in a distinguished manner to their context: on the street side, pilaster-like elements structure the view with reference to the existing façade and frame generous panoramic windows, while on the courtyard side, a calm perforated façade ensures uniform lighting. The continuous cladding with sand-coloured fibre cement panels creates a homogeneous, contemporary building envelope. The existing street-facing façade is stripped of its subsequently applied plaster and the curtain wall masonry façade is carefully supplemented and limewashed. The windows are given contemporary frames and the base is given a contemporary interpretation of a bossed façade. The street façade as a whole thus references the structure of the neighbouring building with its base, upper floors and roof zone. The courtyard-facing masonry façades were simply cleaned and refurbished.

The new maisonette is being constructed using a hybrid design combining reinforced concrete, masonry and steel frames. The acoustic concept is a key planning motif: the new attic apartment is completely decoupled from the existing building in terms of sound. Elastomer bearings, floating superstructures and a sound-optimised roof construction minimise sound transmission and, at the client’s request, allow intensive use of the rooms – even with increased acoustic requirements.

The energy concept is based on the principle of maximum self-sufficiency. A photovoltaic system supplies the heat pump for heating and cooling, while a blind drain in the unsealed courtyard contributes to sustainable rainwater management. The project combines design precision, structural care and technical performance to create a contemporary form of redensification.

The historic back premises (Building II) are being carefully transformed into office space and supplemented with precisely positioned new buildings. The access, supporting structure and building envelope are being functionally reorganised, while the characteristic masonry façade in the courtyard is being preserved and further developed. The design follows the guiding principle of preserving the substance of the building, combining the existing structure with contemporary additions to create a clearly structured ensemble. The office spaces ensure functional, barrier-free and light-optimised workspaces. Sustainability and rainwater management are integral parts of the design, including green roofs and infiltration ditches in the unsealed courtyard.

The construction project is located in the Gräfekiez conservation area in Berlin. The planning takes into account the urban development and design objectives of the conservation ordinance, particularly with regard to scale, materiality and depth of intervention. The planned measures were coordinated in advance with the responsible authorities to ensure that the structural additions are compatible with the character of the area, which is worthy of protection.