A new typology was developed by Peter Ruge Architects for a residential structure in southeast Berlin. Users share three different addresses in the same apartment, becoming the first inclusive Co-Living apartment of its sort. The several entrances that are created in a multi-family compound enable this. The design of the structure resembles a puzzle, with each of the various entrances fitting together to form a single, logical piece. Like how puzzle pieces fit together to create an image, the entrances combine to create a singular living space.
Project Name: Regenerative Living in Berlin-Grünau
Studio Name: Peter Ruge Architekten
Design Team: Peter Ruge Architekten
Energy Consultant: CAALA Gmbh
Structure Engineers : Frick + Petersen GmbH & Co KG
Site Supervision : wbs3architekten
Size: 370 sqm
Plot: 841 sqm
The new typology signifies a major shift in how people typically live. Despite everyone living in a distinct apartment in the same building, the idea of co-living flats seeks to foster a sense of connection and community among its residents. The numerous entrances that bring users right to the door and provide renters a feeling of freedom and isolation are a distinguishing architectural element.
In order to uphold the rights of individuals with disabilities to participate in all facets of community life, the two flats on the ground floor are designed to be barrier-free. We aim to ensure that everyone, regardless of physical ability, has access to the same amenities and services because the prevalence of impairment increases with age. All community members will benefit from the development of a friendly environment as a result of this.
Each apartment is built around a central core, allowing for unlimited movement throughout the entire space. Each space is easily accessible, unlike standard residential apartments, which eliminates the need for lengthy corridors. As a result, there is a better utilization of available space, more living space, and more design flexibility. As a result, the apartments are comfortable and practical.
The second floor’s “pop-up window” contributes to the building’s distinctive character. It serves as a frame that displays the four distinct seasons, lets sunlight in, and offers an unrestricted view of the Grünau woodland. The terraces are a nice place to relax and enjoy the view. The pop-up window creates a seamless connection between inside and outside while offering a distinctive living experience by blending into the background.
In order to preserve the compound’s current state of conservation and for biological reasons, the vegetation must be kept alone. The trees on the property provide natural shelter from the sweltering summer heat and the chilly winter air. This makes the compound’s temperature more consistent and provides residents with a comfortable environment.
The three-story building allows for manual finishing, which is done to give the façade its bark-like appearance. The color scheme is centered on greenery and also represents the tones of the trees throughout the year: the ochre of the tree trunks in winter, the golden hue of the fall, and the spring’s blooming color.
