In the vibrant cityscape of Berlin, where the need for affordable housing is growing more urgent, Max Hacke and Leonhard Clemens have introduced a groundbreaking concept that transforms small and leftover spaces into valuable assets for sustainable and high-quality urban growth.
Situated in the historic Prenzlauer Berg neighborhood, surrounded by a densely populated courtyard block dating back to the 19th-century industrial era, their architecture firm has designed the “smallest” rental housing complex in Berlin. Covering just 54 square meters (6×9 m) in a narrow space between existing buildings, this seven-story residential building rises to 22 meters, challenging current regulations while prioritizing spatial efficiency.
A striking spiral staircase, featuring ribbed corrugated metal, seamlessly connects the old and new structures. It elegantly divides the seven apartments in the tower and four additional units in the expanded adjacent building. Additionally, the rooftop of the latter provides a functional terrace for all residents, meeting fire safety standards with a second escape route and offering communal outdoor spaces.
The apartments, each measuring 38 square meters, have been carefully designed to provide both functionality and comfort. The open and flexible floor plan includes a kitchen-living room, a bathroom, a bedroom, and a spacious south-facing balcony that allows for the gentle flow of natural light.
The rooms have a simple and minimalist aesthetic, with an industrial touch, but still maintain their unique character through the thoughtful finishing details. For instance, the sturdy stainless steel kitchen unit, designed to accommodate standard modules, offers a more sophisticated alternative to the common and basic solutions often found in rental flats.
This innovative project showcases Berlin’s identity as a diverse city that embraces its intricate past and has the adaptability to transform itself amidst challenges and hope. It serves as a hub for creativity and progress, demonstrating how urban design and future development can coexist harmoniously, even in the face of social disparities, infrastructure needs, and environmental concerns.