In central Berlin, yet surrounded by green, this unusual and historically notable house is destined to become home to a family of four. The basis of the design approach was in creating a comprehensive vision that combined the

original with the contemporary.

Most of the non-original modifications were reverted or removed, bringing the building back to a raw frame that once again closely resembled the original 1959 structure. To repurpose the building as a family home without compromising the historic construction, a sophisticated ‘layer’ of sculptural, walk-in furniture has been installed.

House Kirsten, in Berlin’s Hansa district, was built in 1959 as an extension to the architectural exhibition

Interbau 1957

by the renowned architectural duo Kirsten and Nather.

Creating a

sculptural

element within the ground floor space, a sturdy unit serves to integrate the staircase, built in 2001, whilst reinventing it as a contemporary piece that compliments the building’s original flair.

45 meters of bookshelf in natural

timber

complete the library.

The spacious living area on the ground floor, which was originally designed as an open-plan area, is zoned via the built-in units of the kitchen, lounge, and library. The kitchen, which joins the generous dining area, is completely clad in

aluminum.

The lounge, with its

leather

upholstered surround and seating, becomes a cozy and comfortable family space. Located between the garden and courtyard, it is completed with green views.

On the first floor, three

freestanding objects

divide the space and create the floor plan, incorporate the side rooms such as dressing room and bathroom, and accommodate numerous passages and views.