The housing project Markgrafenstraße was developed over the course of a semester. In several steps, we analysed different approaches to urban housing using existing projects. Based on these, we developed a concept for an existing site in Berlin-Kreuzberg.
Front elevation
The building consists of several vertical towers and horizontal slabs, inspired by the medieval towers of Mestia, Georgia. They serve to create a big amount of living area while creating a unique look and providing different types of living arrangement.
Upper left: Division of building use, Lower left: longitudinal section, Right: circulation
Site plan
The main concept was providing living area suitable to all needs across one's life time. The upper block is dedicated to families and offers unique apartment situations that combine privacy with openness. The middle block is planned for young people who live as a community in different types of shared spaces, both for bigger arrangements (six people) and for smaller ones, such as couples. The bottom right block offers communal living with the elderly in an arrangement that focuses on togetherness and care while allowing the elderly to also be somewhat independent.
Floor plans for different arrangements
Close up and section, family apartment
One of the main typological themes was the usage of access balconies to create a lively and communal space in the courtyard. There is always an outer, more open and an inner, more protected area of the access balcony. This was inspired by the Japanese engawa.
Model photography, access balcony
In some of the apartments, there is an inner partition inspired by Japanese shoji. This allows for differing levels of privacy even within shared apartments.
Model photography, interior
Second semester, BSc. Architecture
TU Berlin
Studio: Architecture and Innovative Construction
Supervisor: Prof. Nicole Berganski
Project by Bela Mohr, Malte Heesen
Drawings etc. by Bela Mohr, Malte Heesen