Hackescher Markt Berlin

A vacant lot in close proximity to the Hackesche Höfe courtyard ensemble was the site for a residential and office building that in its various levels of permeability seeks dialogue with the city around it. The L-shaped building connects to the adjacent urban structure with a tapered “atrium seam” and mediates between the two buildings with its staggered building height. In the atrium, the individual functional units are accessed via an open staircase and walkways, giving the apartments in the side wings an additional orientation point. The courtyard façade of the side wing has a curved shape that follows the path of the sun in order to achieve optimal lighting conditions. On the roof of the side wing are common areas, including a children’s playground, benches and a barbecue for recreational use.