Florian Meissner+Paula Thurow
The aim of the studio was to question conventional living in the city.
The studio was intended to question conventional living in the city. The plot, which is characterized by a strong north and south orientation, becomes interesting for residential use with the help of the studio apartment.
To the north, the building stands parallel to a narrow lane that is an extension of an existing historic street. To the south, there is a square to which all other plots are connected. Particular attention was paid to the formulation of the façades, which have to deal with different lighting conditions. The transparent north façade lies like a protective cloth over and in front of the studio zone.
The double glazing widens the alleyway situation and the actual façade is visually set back once again. The window front of the studios attempts to capture grazing light across the ceiling. It is possible to access the studios directly via the resulting north corridor. When the folding doors are open, this corridor is a place for creative exchange and communication.
In contrast, the south façade is more closed and private, a lintel reduces the window area and individual shading is possible thanks to planted sliding shutters. The living area can be accessed directly via the south arcade. The choice of access is up to the users and the degree of studio use. The design combines living and working depending on the lighting conditions and is aimed particularly at professional artists or designers.
For this purpose, there is a bright studio space to the north and living spaces to the south, with a functional core with kitchen and wet room in between. The first floor accommodates commercial units facing the alley and the square in order to attract people and enliven the quarter. In the center is an educational unit and an area that can be used by the residents as a gallery or retail space if required; it can also be subdivided.
Authors: Florian Meissner+Paula Thurow.
Website: meissnerarchitektur.com
Location: Berlín, Germany.
University: Bauhaus Universität Weimar.
Year: 2022