Project 02
Giraffe
Klopstockstraße 2 (also know as "Giraffe"), an all-concrete building, was the first project of the Hansaviertel, initiated in 1955 and completed in time for the Interbau exhibition. Today, the residential building, designed by architects Klaus Müller-Rehm and Gerhard Siegmann, is a listed heritage site.
Location
Berlin, Germany
Size
42 sqm
Project Period
2024
Type
Residential
With the aim of creating urban apartments in the smallest possible space, this tower was one of the first buildings in Berlin designed exclusively for singles. All apartments featured just one living room, a small bathroom, and basic cooking facilities. Utility rooms were kept small to maximize the living area. Each floor contains 10 apartments (eight of them measuring 32 sqm, while the corner apartments in the northwest and southeast measure 42 sqm).
The apartments in the west wing were considered the "male type," with three-part, floor-to-ceiling windows and only a compact kitchenette. In the east wing, the "female type" apartments include a small kitchen and two-part glass doors. The centrally located staircase connects the two wings. Above the recessed top floor lies the prominent flat roof.
Our renovation measures had to comply with all preservation regulations. The solid concrete ceilings and load-bearing walls required the installation of surface-mounted electrical wiring. Plumbing systems were replaced entirely. For the design and interior work, we drew inspiration from historical photographs showing how people actually lived in the apartments at the time. It was important to create sufficient storage space.
We chose light wood veneer for the cabinet fronts. The kitchen counter was extended into the living area to accommodate all necessary appliances.
In the generously designed bathroom, which features a rain shower, we also created space for a washing machine and a separate dryer. The apartment now offers sleeping accommodations for three people and can be used as both an Airbnb rental and a single apartment.