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A CAREFUL RENEWAL
The refurbishment and modernization of the protected buildings and courtyards comprising BRICKS Berlin, Schöneberg was an elaborate process that was conducted with care and attention to detail. The overall leitmotif of the restoration was to reveal the former grandeur and craftsmanship of the commercially used buildings which have survived eras, such as the 1950s and 1980s, when practical function was more important than preservation.
After an intensive planning and research phase, the transformation started in 2014: All of the clinker facades were carefully restored and dry-construction fittings were removed to allow the open and spacious floor layouts of former times. Conservation specialists were able to identify the original color schemes of the 1920s in the stair wells. The ornate banisters have been raised to comply with today’s security standards while retaining the original wrought ironwork. All windows have been preserved and two new elevators installed. An extensive rooftop terrace offering stunning views of the city has been built for commercial tenants in the historical buildings.
The lofts in the main post office building and the boiler house have been converted. The roof, lost during WWII, was restored, and another storey has been added onto the rear building. The former parcel delivery rooms have been turned into food and beverage outlets and the delivery ramps are perfect as alfresco dining terraces in the secluded setting of the courtyards. The old teller’s counter room with safe on the first floor in the main post office building has been converted into an office. Hidden treasures of the ensemble are the boiler house, the gatekeeper’s house and the former hall in the switching center. The loft of the boiler house was converted and windows and a balcony added. Large skylights have been set into the ceiling of the dark annex admitting ample light. To preserve the listed gatekeeper’s house, a complex solution was chosen; the building was translocated; it was taken down, each brick was indexed and stored while the new residential building in Belziger Strasse was erected. The gatehouse has been rebuilt, stone for stone, and the new building appears to hover above it.
During the 1980s and 1990s, the former manual telephone exchange hall was used as a public cantina for telecommunication staff and the neighborhood. The self-contained two-storey hall impresses with its sheer size, possible through buttresses supporting the main cornice. The surprise was big when painted ornaments were uncovered on the hall’s ceiling. Conservators carefully cleaned the murals, but renounced from restoration to keep the signs of time. Today, the former switching hall hosts the Kabbalah Centre Berlin and GRAFT Architects won several awards and nominations for its sensitive design.
During the 1980s and 1990s, the former manual telephone exchange hall was used as a public canteen for telecommunications staff and the neighborhood. The self-contained two-storey hall impresses with its sheer size, possible due to the buttresses supporting the main cornice. There was great surprise when painted ornaments were uncovered on the hall’s ceiling. The murals were carefully cleaned but not fully restored maintaining the historical impression. Today, the former switching hall accommodates the Kabbalah Centre Berlin. The interiors by GRAFT Architects have won several awards and nominations for its empathetic approach, among them the „IDA International Design Awards“ in Los Angeles.
The former workshop with the astonishing height of nearly eight meters was also refurbished whilst retaining its character. Where mechanics once repaired and maintained a fleet of vehicles, athletes now train and maintain their fitness in a Crossfit studio.
At the beginning of the refurbishment, it was planned to close the post office in the main building on the street front in Hauptstrasse; a continuation of operations was logistically impossible as the ramps were no longer available. A historical photo convinced the conservation authorities to approve an opening in the wall to allow the construction of a new delivery zone with a platform lift. This has enabled the Post Office Schöneberg to continue to provide postal services as it has done for over 115 years.
A number of courtyards throughout the complex allow meandering passage from Belziger Strasse to Hauptstrasse. Accentuated garden design breaks the stark appearance of the brickwork – the green of trees and plants contrasts with the palette of bronze hues of the buildings. A street art wall painting in the main courtyard tells the story of the complex as a post office. It is apparent that the love of detail has been a guiding principle in the transformation of BRICKS Berlin Schöneberg.
The refurbishment and modernization of the protected buildings and courtyards comprising BRICKS Berlin, Schöneberg was an elaborate process that was conducted with care and attention to detail. The overall leitmotif of the restoration was to reveal the former grandeur and craftsmanship of the commercially used buildings which have survived eras, such as the 1950s and 1980s, when practical function was more important than preservation.
After an intensive planning and research phase, the transformation started in 2014: All of the clinker facades were carefully restored and dry-construction fittings were removed to allow the open and spacious floor layouts of former times. Conservation specialists were able to identify the original color schemes of the 1920s in the stair wells. The ornate banisters have been raised to comply with today’s security standards while retaining the original wrought ironwork. All windows have been preserved and two new elevators installed. An extensive rooftop terrace offering stunning views of the city has been built for commercial tenants in the historical buildings.
The lofts in the main post office building and the boiler house have been converted. The roof, lost during WWII, was restored, and another storey has been added onto the rear building. The former parcel delivery rooms have been turned into food and beverage outlets and the delivery ramps are perfect as alfresco dining terraces in the secluded setting of the courtyards. The old teller’s counter room with safe on the first floor in the main post office building has been converted into an office. Hidden treasures of the ensemble are the boiler house, the gatekeeper’s house and the former hall in the switching center. The loft of the boiler house was converted and windows and a balcony added. Large skylights have been set into the ceiling of the dark annex admitting ample light. To preserve the listed gatekeeper’s house, a complex solution was chosen; the building was translocated; it was taken down, each brick was indexed and stored while the new residential building in Belziger Strasse was erected. The gatehouse has been rebuilt, stone for stone, and the new building appears to hover above it.
During the 1980s and 1990s, the former manual telephone exchange hall was used as a public cantina for telecommunication staff and the neighborhood. The self-contained two-storey hall impresses with its sheer size, possible through buttresses supporting the main cornice. The surprise was big when painted ornaments were uncovered on the hall’s ceiling. Conservators carefully cleaned the murals, but renounced from restoration to keep the signs of time. Today, the former switching hall hosts the Kabbalah Centre Berlin and GRAFT Architects won several awards and nominations for its sensitive design.
During the 1980s and 1990s, the former manual telephone exchange hall was used as a public canteen for telecommunications staff and the neighborhood. The self-contained two-storey hall impresses with its sheer size, possible due to the buttresses supporting the main cornice. There was great surprise when painted ornaments were uncovered on the hall’s ceiling. The murals were carefully cleaned but not fully restored maintaining the historical impression. Today, the former switching hall accommodates the Kabbalah Centre Berlin. The interiors by GRAFT Architects have won several awards and nominations for its empathetic approach, among them the „IDA International Design Awards“ in Los Angeles.
The former workshop with the astonishing height of nearly eight meters was also refurbished whilst retaining its character. Where mechanics once repaired and maintained a fleet of vehicles, athletes now train and maintain their fitness in a Crossfit studio.
At the beginning of the refurbishment, it was planned to close the post office in the main building on the street front in Hauptstrasse; a continuation of operations was logistically impossible as the ramps were no longer available. A historical photo convinced the conservation authorities to approve an opening in the wall to allow the construction of a new delivery zone with a platform lift. This has enabled the Post Office Schöneberg to continue to provide postal services as it has done for over 115 years.
A number of courtyards throughout the complex allow meandering passage from Belziger Strasse to Hauptstrasse. Accentuated garden design breaks the stark appearance of the brickwork – the green of trees and plants contrasts with the palette of bronze hues of the buildings. A street art wall painting in the main courtyard tells the story of the complex as a post office. It is apparent that the love of detail has been a guiding principle in the transformation of BRICKS Berlin Schöneberg.
A CAREFUL RENEWAL
The refurbishment and modernization of the protected buildings and courtyards comprising BRICKS Berlin, Schöneberg was an elaborate process that was conducted with care and attention to detail. The overall leitmotif of the restoration was to reveal the former grandeur and craftsmanship of the commercially used buildings which have survived eras, such as the 1950s and 1980s, when practical function was more important than preservation.
After an intensive planning and research phase, the transformation started in 2014: All of the clinker facades were carefully restored and dry-construction fittings were removed to allow the open and spacious floor layouts of former times. Conservation specialists were able to identify the original color schemes of the 1920s in the stair wells. The ornate banisters have been raised to comply with today’s security standards while retaining the original wrought ironwork. All windows have been preserved and two new elevators installed. An extensive rooftop terrace offering stunning views of the city has been built for commercial tenants in the historical buildings.
The lofts in the main post office building and the boiler house have been converted. The roof, lost during WWII, was restored, and another storey has been added onto the rear building. The former parcel delivery rooms have been turned into food and beverage outlets and the delivery ramps are perfect as alfresco dining terraces in the secluded setting of the courtyards. The old teller’s counter room with safe on the first floor in the main post office building has been converted into an office. Hidden treasures of the ensemble are the boiler house, the gatekeeper’s house and the former hall in the switching center. The loft of the boiler house was converted and windows and a balcony added. Large skylights have been set into the ceiling of the dark annex admitting ample light. To preserve the listed gatekeeper’s house, a complex solution was chosen; the building was translocated; it was taken down, each brick was indexed and stored while the new residential building in Belziger Strasse was erected. The gatehouse is being rebuilt, stone for stone, and the new building appears to hover above it.
During the 1980s and 1990s, the former manual telephone exchange hall was used as a public cantina for telecommunication staff and the neighborhood. The self-contained two-storey hall impresses with its sheer size, possible through buttresses supporting the main cornice. The surprise was big when painted ornaments were uncovered on the hall’s ceiling. Conservators carefully cleaned the murals, but renounced from restoration to keep the signs of time. Today, the former switching hall hosts the Kabbalah Centre Berlin and GRAFT Architects won several awards and nominations for its sensitive design.
During the 1980s and 1990s, the former manual telephone exchange hall was used as a public canteen for telecommunications staff and the neighborhood. The self-contained two-storey hall impresses with its sheer size, possible due to the buttresses supporting the main cornice. There was great surprise when painted ornaments were uncovered on the hall’s ceiling. The murals were carefully cleaned but not fully restored maintaining the historical impression. Today, the former switching hall accommodates the Kabbalah Centre Berlin. The interiors by GRAFT Architects have won several awards and nominations for its empathetic approach, among them the „IDA International Design Awards“ in Los Angeles.
The former workshop with the astonishing height of nearly eight meters was also refurbished whilst retaining its character. Where mechanics once repaired and maintained a fleet of vehicles, athletes now train and maintain their fitness in a Crossfit studio.
At the beginning of the refurbishment, it was planned to close the post office in the main building on the street front in Hauptstrasse; a continuation of operations was logistically impossible as the ramps were no longer available. A historical photo convinced the conservation authorities to approve an opening in the wall to allow the construction of a new delivery zone with a platform lift. This has enabled the Post Office Schöneberg to continue to provide postal services as it has done for over 115 years.
A number of courtyards throughout the complex allow meandering passage from Belziger Strasse to Hauptstrasse. Accentuated garden design breaks the stark appearance of the brickwork – the green of trees and plants contrasts with the palette of bronze hues of the buildings. A street art wall painting in the main courtyard tells the story of the complex as a post office. It is apparent that the love of detail has been a guiding principle in the transformation of BRICKS Berlin Schöneberg.
The refurbishment and modernization of the protected buildings and courtyards comprising BRICKS Berlin, Schöneberg was an elaborate process that was conducted with care and attention to detail. The overall leitmotif of the restoration was to reveal the former grandeur and craftsmanship of the commercially used buildings which have survived eras, such as the 1950s and 1980s, when practical function was more important than preservation.
After an intensive planning and research phase, the transformation started in 2014: All of the clinker facades were carefully restored and dry-construction fittings were removed to allow the open and spacious floor layouts of former times. Conservation specialists were able to identify the original color schemes of the 1920s in the stair wells. The ornate banisters have been raised to comply with today’s security standards while retaining the original wrought ironwork. All windows have been preserved and two new elevators installed. An extensive rooftop terrace offering stunning views of the city has been built for commercial tenants in the historical buildings.
The lofts in the main post office building and the boiler house have been converted. The roof, lost during WWII, was restored, and another storey has been added onto the rear building. The former parcel delivery rooms have been turned into food and beverage outlets and the delivery ramps are perfect as alfresco dining terraces in the secluded setting of the courtyards. The old teller’s counter room with safe on the first floor in the main post office building has been converted into an office. Hidden treasures of the ensemble are the boiler house, the gatekeeper’s house and the former hall in the switching center. The loft of the boiler house was converted and windows and a balcony added. Large skylights have been set into the ceiling of the dark annex admitting ample light. To preserve the listed gatekeeper’s house, a complex solution was chosen; the building was translocated; it was taken down, each brick was indexed and stored while the new residential building in Belziger Strasse was erected. The gatehouse is being rebuilt, stone for stone, and the new building appears to hover above it.
During the 1980s and 1990s, the former manual telephone exchange hall was used as a public cantina for telecommunication staff and the neighborhood. The self-contained two-storey hall impresses with its sheer size, possible through buttresses supporting the main cornice. The surprise was big when painted ornaments were uncovered on the hall’s ceiling. Conservators carefully cleaned the murals, but renounced from restoration to keep the signs of time. Today, the former switching hall hosts the Kabbalah Centre Berlin and GRAFT Architects won several awards and nominations for its sensitive design.
During the 1980s and 1990s, the former manual telephone exchange hall was used as a public canteen for telecommunications staff and the neighborhood. The self-contained two-storey hall impresses with its sheer size, possible due to the buttresses supporting the main cornice. There was great surprise when painted ornaments were uncovered on the hall’s ceiling. The murals were carefully cleaned but not fully restored maintaining the historical impression. Today, the former switching hall accommodates the Kabbalah Centre Berlin. The interiors by GRAFT Architects have won several awards and nominations for its empathetic approach, among them the „IDA International Design Awards“ in Los Angeles.
The former workshop with the astonishing height of nearly eight meters was also refurbished whilst retaining its character. Where mechanics once repaired and maintained a fleet of vehicles, athletes now train and maintain their fitness in a Crossfit studio.
At the beginning of the refurbishment, it was planned to close the post office in the main building on the street front in Hauptstrasse; a continuation of operations was logistically impossible as the ramps were no longer available. A historical photo convinced the conservation authorities to approve an opening in the wall to allow the construction of a new delivery zone with a platform lift. This has enabled the Post Office Schöneberg to continue to provide postal services as it has done for over 115 years.
A number of courtyards throughout the complex allow meandering passage from Belziger Strasse to Hauptstrasse. Accentuated garden design breaks the stark appearance of the brickwork – the green of trees and plants contrasts with the palette of bronze hues of the buildings. A street art wall painting in the main courtyard tells the story of the complex as a post office. It is apparent that the love of detail has been a guiding principle in the transformation of BRICKS Berlin Schöneberg.
A CAREFUL RENEWAL
The refurbishment and modernization of the protected buildings and courtyards comprising BRICKS Berlin, Schöneberg was an elaborate process that was conducted with care and attention to detail. The overall leitmotif of the restoration was to reveal the former grandeur and craftsmanship of the commercially used buildings which have survived eras, such as the 1950s and 1980s, when practical function was more important than preservation.
After an intensive planning and research phase, the transformation started in 2014: All of the clinker facades were carefully restored and dry-construction fittings were removed to allow the open and spacious floor layouts of former times. Conservation specialists were able to identify the original color schemes of the 1920s in the stair wells. The ornate banisters have been raised to comply with today’s security standards while retaining the original wrought ironwork. All windows have been preserved and two new elevators installed. An extensive rooftop terrace offering stunning views of the city has been built for commercial tenants in the historical buildings.
The lofts in the main post office building and the boiler house have been converted. The roof, lost during WWII, was restored, and another storey has been added onto the rear building. The former parcel delivery rooms have been turned into food and beverage outlets and the delivery ramps are perfect as alfresco dining terraces in the secluded setting of the courtyards. The old teller’s counter room with safe on the first floor in the main post office building has been converted into an office. Hidden treasures of the ensemble are the boiler house, the gatekeeper’s house and the former hall in the switching center. The loft of the boiler house was converted and windows and a balcony added. Large skylights have been set into the ceiling of the dark annex admitting ample light. To preserve the listed gatekeeper’s house, a complex solution was chosen; the building was translocated; it was taken down, each brick was indexed and stored while the new residential building in Belziger Strasse was erected. The gatehouse is being rebuilt, stone for stone, and the new building appears to hover above it.
During the 1980s and 1990s, the former manual telephone exchange hall was used as a public cantina for telecommunication staff and the neighborhood. The self-contained two-storey hall impresses with its sheer size, possible through buttresses supporting the main cornice. The surprise was big when painted ornaments were uncovered on the hall’s ceiling. Conservators carefully cleaned the murals, but renounced from restoration to keep the signs of time. Today, the former switching hall hosts the Kabbalah Centre Berlin and GRAFT Architects won several awards and nominations for its sensitive design.
During the 1980s and 1990s, the former manual telephone exchange hall was used as a public canteen for telecommunications staff and the neighborhood. The self-contained two-storey hall impresses with its sheer size, possible due to the buttresses supporting the main cornice. There was great surprise when painted ornaments were uncovered on the hall’s ceiling. The murals were carefully cleaned but not fully restored maintaining the historical impression. Today, the former switching hall accommodates the Kabbalah Centre Berlin. The interiors by GRAFT Architects have won several awards and nominations for its empathetic approach, among them the „IDA International Design Awards“ in Los Angeles.
The former workshop with the astonishing height of nearly eight meters was also refurbished whilst retaining its character. Where mechanics once repaired and maintained a fleet of vehicles, athletes now train and maintain their fitness in a Crossfit studio.
At the beginning of the refurbishment, it was planned to close the post office in the main building on the street front in Hauptstrasse; a continuation of operations was logistically impossible as the ramps were no longer available. A historical photo convinced the conservation authorities to approve an opening in the wall to allow the construction of a new delivery zone with a platform lift. This has enabled the Post Office Schöneberg to continue to provide postal services as it has done for over 115 years.
A number of courtyards throughout the complex allow meandering passage from Belziger Strasse to Hauptstrasse. Accentuated garden design breaks the stark appearance of the brickwork – the green of trees and plants contrasts with the palette of bronze hues of the buildings. A street art wall painting in the main courtyard tells the story of the complex as a post office. It is apparent that the love of detail has been a guiding principle in the transformation of BRICKS Berlin Schöneberg.
The refurbishment and modernization of the protected buildings and courtyards comprising BRICKS Berlin, Schöneberg was an elaborate process that was conducted with care and attention to detail. The overall leitmotif of the restoration was to reveal the former grandeur and craftsmanship of the commercially used buildings which have survived eras, such as the 1950s and 1980s, when practical function was more important than preservation.
After an intensive planning and research phase, the transformation started in 2014: All of the clinker facades were carefully restored and dry-construction fittings were removed to allow the open and spacious floor layouts of former times. Conservation specialists were able to identify the original color schemes of the 1920s in the stair wells. The ornate banisters have been raised to comply with today’s security standards while retaining the original wrought ironwork. All windows have been preserved and two new elevators installed. An extensive rooftop terrace offering stunning views of the city has been built for commercial tenants in the historical buildings.
The lofts in the main post office building and the boiler house have been converted. The roof, lost during WWII, was restored, and another storey has been added onto the rear building. The former parcel delivery rooms have been turned into food and beverage outlets and the delivery ramps are perfect as alfresco dining terraces in the secluded setting of the courtyards. The old teller’s counter room with safe on the first floor in the main post office building has been converted into an office. Hidden treasures of the ensemble are the boiler house, the gatekeeper’s house and the former hall in the switching center. The loft of the boiler house was converted and windows and a balcony added. Large skylights have been set into the ceiling of the dark annex admitting ample light. To preserve the listed gatekeeper’s house, a complex solution was chosen; the building was translocated; it was taken down, each brick was indexed and stored while the new residential building in Belziger Strasse was erected. The gatehouse is being rebuilt, stone for stone, and the new building appears to hover above it.
During the 1980s and 1990s, the former manual telephone exchange hall was used as a public cantina for telecommunication staff and the neighborhood. The self-contained two-storey hall impresses with its sheer size, possible through buttresses supporting the main cornice. The surprise was big when painted ornaments were uncovered on the hall’s ceiling. Conservators carefully cleaned the murals, but renounced from restoration to keep the signs of time. Today, the former switching hall hosts the Kabbalah Centre Berlin and GRAFT Architects won several awards and nominations for its sensitive design.
During the 1980s and 1990s, the former manual telephone exchange hall was used as a public canteen for telecommunications staff and the neighborhood. The self-contained two-storey hall impresses with its sheer size, possible due to the buttresses supporting the main cornice. There was great surprise when painted ornaments were uncovered on the hall’s ceiling. The murals were carefully cleaned but not fully restored maintaining the historical impression. Today, the former switching hall accommodates the Kabbalah Centre Berlin. The interiors by GRAFT Architects have won several awards and nominations for its empathetic approach, among them the „IDA International Design Awards“ in Los Angeles.
The former workshop with the astonishing height of nearly eight meters was also refurbished whilst retaining its character. Where mechanics once repaired and maintained a fleet of vehicles, athletes now train and maintain their fitness in a Crossfit studio.
At the beginning of the refurbishment, it was planned to close the post office in the main building on the street front in Hauptstrasse; a continuation of operations was logistically impossible as the ramps were no longer available. A historical photo convinced the conservation authorities to approve an opening in the wall to allow the construction of a new delivery zone with a platform lift. This has enabled the Post Office Schöneberg to continue to provide postal services as it has done for over 115 years.
A number of courtyards throughout the complex allow meandering passage from Belziger Strasse to Hauptstrasse. Accentuated garden design breaks the stark appearance of the brickwork – the green of trees and plants contrasts with the palette of bronze hues of the buildings. A street art wall painting in the main courtyard tells the story of the complex as a post office. It is apparent that the love of detail has been a guiding principle in the transformation of BRICKS Berlin Schöneberg.
A CAREFUL RENEWAL
The refurbishment and modernization of the protected buildings and courtyards comprising BRICKS Berlin, Schöneberg was an elaborate process that was conducted with care and attention to detail. The overall leitmotif of the restoration was to reveal the former grandeur and craftsmanship of the commercially used buildings which have survived eras, such as the 1950s and 1980s, when practical function was more important than preservation.
After an intensive planning and research phase, the transformation started in 2014: All of the clinker facades were carefully restored and dry-construction fittings were removed to allow the open and spacious floor layouts of former times. Conservation specialists were able to identify the original color schemes of the 1920s in the stair wells. The ornate banisters have been raised to comply with today’s security standards while retaining the original wrought ironwork. All windows have been preserved and two new elevators installed. An extensive rooftop terrace offering stunning views of the city has been built for commercial tenants in the historical buildings.
The lofts in the main post office building and the boiler house have been converted. The roof, lost during WWII, was restored, and another storey has been added onto the rear building. The former parcel delivery rooms have been turned into food and beverage outlets and the delivery ramps are perfect as alfresco dining terraces in the secluded setting of the courtyards. The old teller’s counter room with safe on the first floor in the main post office building has been converted into an office. Hidden treasures of the ensemble are the boiler house, the gatekeeper’s house and the former hall in the switching center. The loft of the boiler house was converted and windows and a balcony added. Large skylights have been set into the ceiling of the dark annex admitting ample light. To preserve the listed gatekeeper’s house, a complex solution was chosen; the building was translocated; it was taken down, each brick was indexed and stored while the new residential building in Belziger Strasse was erected. The gatehouse is being rebuilt, stone for stone, and the new building appears to hover above it.
During the 1980s and 1990s, the former manual telephone exchange hall was used as a public cantina for telecommunication staff and the neighborhood. The self-contained two-storey hall impresses with its sheer size, possible through buttresses supporting the main cornice. The surprise was big when painted ornaments were uncovered on the hall’s ceiling. Conservators carefully cleaned the murals, but renounced from restoration to keep the signs of time. Today, the former switching hall hosts the Kabbalah Centre Berlin and GRAFT Architects won several awards and nominations for its sensitive design.
During the 1980s and 1990s, the former manual telephone exchange hall was used as a public canteen for telecommunications staff and the neighborhood. The self-contained two-storey hall impresses with its sheer size, possible due to the buttresses supporting the main cornice. There was great surprise when painted ornaments were uncovered on the hall’s ceiling. The murals were carefully cleaned but not fully restored maintaining the historical impression. Today, the former switching hall accommodates the Kabbalah Centre Berlin. The interiors by GRAFT Architects have won several awards and nominations for its empathetic approach, among them the „IDA International Design Awards“ in Los Angeles.
The former workshop with the astonishing height of nearly eight meters was also refurbished whilst retaining its character. Where mechanics once repaired and maintained a fleet of vehicles, athletes now train and maintain their fitness in a Crossfit studio.
At the beginning of the refurbishment, it was planned to close the post office in the main building on the street front in Hauptstrasse; a continuation of operations was logistically impossible as the ramps were no longer available. A historical photo convinced the conservation authorities to approve an opening in the wall to allow the construction of a new delivery zone with a platform lift. This has enabled the Post Office Schöneberg to continue to provide postal services as it has done for over 115 years.
A number of courtyards throughout the complex allow meandering passage from Belziger Strasse to Hauptstrasse. Accentuated garden design breaks the stark appearance of the brickwork – the green of trees and plants contrasts with the palette of bronze hues of the buildings. A street art wall painting in the main courtyard tells the story of the complex as a post office. It is apparent that the love of detail has been a guiding principle in the transformation of BRICKS Berlin Schöneberg.
The refurbishment and modernization of the protected buildings and courtyards comprising BRICKS Berlin, Schöneberg was an elaborate process that was conducted with care and attention to detail. The overall leitmotif of the restoration was to reveal the former grandeur and craftsmanship of the commercially used buildings which have survived eras, such as the 1950s and 1980s, when practical function was more important than preservation.
After an intensive planning and research phase, the transformation started in 2014: All of the clinker facades were carefully restored and dry-construction fittings were removed to allow the open and spacious floor layouts of former times. Conservation specialists were able to identify the original color schemes of the 1920s in the stair wells. The ornate banisters have been raised to comply with today’s security standards while retaining the original wrought ironwork. All windows have been preserved and two new elevators installed. An extensive rooftop terrace offering stunning views of the city has been built for commercial tenants in the historical buildings.
The lofts in the main post office building and the boiler house have been converted. The roof, lost during WWII, was restored, and another storey has been added onto the rear building. The former parcel delivery rooms have been turned into food and beverage outlets and the delivery ramps are perfect as alfresco dining terraces in the secluded setting of the courtyards. The old teller’s counter room with safe on the first floor in the main post office building has been converted into an office. Hidden treasures of the ensemble are the boiler house, the gatekeeper’s house and the former hall in the switching center. The loft of the boiler house was converted and windows and a balcony added. Large skylights have been set into the ceiling of the dark annex admitting ample light. To preserve the listed gatekeeper’s house, a complex solution was chosen; the building was translocated; it was taken down, each brick was indexed and stored while the new residential building in Belziger Strasse was erected. The gatehouse is being rebuilt, stone for stone, and the new building appears to hover above it.
During the 1980s and 1990s, the former manual telephone exchange hall was used as a public cantina for telecommunication staff and the neighborhood. The self-contained two-storey hall impresses with its sheer size, possible through buttresses supporting the main cornice. The surprise was big when painted ornaments were uncovered on the hall’s ceiling. Conservators carefully cleaned the murals, but renounced from restoration to keep the signs of time. Today, the former switching hall hosts the Kabbalah Centre Berlin and GRAFT Architects won several awards and nominations for its sensitive design.
During the 1980s and 1990s, the former manual telephone exchange hall was used as a public canteen for telecommunications staff and the neighborhood. The self-contained two-storey hall impresses with its sheer size, possible due to the buttresses supporting the main cornice. There was great surprise when painted ornaments were uncovered on the hall’s ceiling. The murals were carefully cleaned but not fully restored maintaining the historical impression. Today, the former switching hall accommodates the Kabbalah Centre Berlin. The interiors by GRAFT Architects have won several awards and nominations for its empathetic approach, among them the „IDA International Design Awards“ in Los Angeles.
The former workshop with the astonishing height of nearly eight meters was also refurbished whilst retaining its character. Where mechanics once repaired and maintained a fleet of vehicles, athletes now train and maintain their fitness in a Crossfit studio.
At the beginning of the refurbishment, it was planned to close the post office in the main building on the street front in Hauptstrasse; a continuation of operations was logistically impossible as the ramps were no longer available. A historical photo convinced the conservation authorities to approve an opening in the wall to allow the construction of a new delivery zone with a platform lift. This has enabled the Post Office Schöneberg to continue to provide postal services as it has done for over 115 years.
A number of courtyards throughout the complex allow meandering passage from Belziger Strasse to Hauptstrasse. Accentuated garden design breaks the stark appearance of the brickwork – the green of trees and plants contrasts with the palette of bronze hues of the buildings. A street art wall painting in the main courtyard tells the story of the complex as a post office. It is apparent that the love of detail has been a guiding principle in the transformation of BRICKS Berlin Schöneberg.
A CAREFUL RENEWAL
The refurbishment and modernization of the protected buildings and courtyards comprising BRICKS Berlin, Schöneberg was an elaborate process that was conducted with care and attention to detail. The overall leitmotif of the restoration was to reveal the former grandeur and craftsmanship of the commercially used buildings which have survived eras, such as the 1950s and 1980s, when practical function was more important than preservation.
After an intensive planning and research phase, the transformation started in 2014: All of the clinker facades were carefully restored and dry-construction fittings were removed to allow the open and spacious floor layouts of former times. Conservation specialists were able to identify the original color schemes of the 1920s in the stair wells. The ornate banisters have been raised to comply with today’s security standards while retaining the original wrought ironwork. All windows have been preserved and two new elevators installed. An extensive rooftop terrace offering stunning views of the city has been built for commercial tenants in the historical buildings.
The lofts in the main post office building and the boiler house have been converted. The roof, lost during WWII, was restored, and another storey has been added onto the rear building. The former parcel delivery rooms have been turned into food and beverage outlets and the delivery ramps are perfect as alfresco dining terraces in the secluded setting of the courtyards. The old teller’s counter room with safe on the first floor in the main post office building has been converted into an office. Hidden treasures of the ensemble are the boiler house, the gatekeeper’s house and the former hall in the switching center. The loft of the boiler house was converted and windows and a balcony added. Large skylights have been set into the ceiling of the dark annex admitting ample light. To preserve the listed gatekeeper’s house, a complex solution was chosen; the building was translocated; it was taken down, each brick was indexed and stored while the new residential building in Belziger Strasse was erected. The gatehouse is being rebuilt, stone for stone, and the new building appears to hover above it.
During the 1980s and 1990s, the former manual telephone exchange hall was used as a public cantina for telecommunication staff and the neighborhood. The self-contained two-storey hall impresses with its sheer size, possible through buttresses supporting the main cornice. The surprise was big when painted ornaments were uncovered on the hall’s ceiling. Conservators carefully cleaned the murals, but renounced from restoration to keep the signs of time. Today, the former switching hall hosts the Kabbalah Centre Berlin and GRAFT Architects won several awards and nominations for its sensitive design.
During the 1980s and 1990s, the former manual telephone exchange hall was used as a public canteen for telecommunications staff and the neighborhood. The self-contained two-storey hall impresses with its sheer size, possible due to the buttresses supporting the main cornice. There was great surprise when painted ornaments were uncovered on the hall’s ceiling. The murals were carefully cleaned but not fully restored maintaining the historical impression. Today, the former switching hall accommodates the Kabbalah Centre Berlin. The interiors by GRAFT Architects have won several awards and nominations for its empathetic approach, among them the „IDA International Design Awards“ in Los Angeles.
The former workshop with the astonishing height of nearly eight meters was also refurbished whilst retaining its character. Where mechanics once repaired and maintained a fleet of vehicles, athletes now train and maintain their fitness in a Crossfit studio.
At the beginning of the refurbishment, it was planned to close the post office in the main building on the street front in Hauptstrasse; a continuation of operations was logistically impossible as the ramps were no longer available. A historical photo convinced the conservation authorities to approve an opening in the wall to allow the construction of a new delivery zone with a platform lift. This has enabled the Post Office Schöneberg to continue to provide postal services as it has done for over 115 years.
A number of courtyards throughout the complex allow meandering passage from Belziger Strasse to Hauptstrasse. Accentuated garden design breaks the stark appearance of the brickwork – the green of trees and plants contrasts with the palette of bronze hues of the buildings. A street art wall painting in the main courtyard tells the story of the complex as a post office. It is apparent that the love of detail has been a guiding principle in the transformation of BRICKS Berlin Schöneberg.
The refurbishment and modernization of the protected buildings and courtyards comprising BRICKS Berlin, Schöneberg was an elaborate process that was conducted with care and attention to detail. The overall leitmotif of the restoration was to reveal the former grandeur and craftsmanship of the commercially used buildings which have survived eras, such as the 1950s and 1980s, when practical function was more important than preservation.
After an intensive planning and research phase, the transformation started in 2014: All of the clinker facades were carefully restored and dry-construction fittings were removed to allow the open and spacious floor layouts of former times. Conservation specialists were able to identify the original color schemes of the 1920s in the stair wells. The ornate banisters have been raised to comply with today’s security standards while retaining the original wrought ironwork. All windows have been preserved and two new elevators installed. An extensive rooftop terrace offering stunning views of the city has been built for commercial tenants in the historical buildings.
The lofts in the main post office building and the boiler house have been converted. The roof, lost during WWII, was restored, and another storey has been added onto the rear building. The former parcel delivery rooms have been turned into food and beverage outlets and the delivery ramps are perfect as alfresco dining terraces in the secluded setting of the courtyards. The old teller’s counter room with safe on the first floor in the main post office building has been converted into an office. Hidden treasures of the ensemble are the boiler house, the gatekeeper’s house and the former hall in the switching center. The loft of the boiler house was converted and windows and a balcony added. Large skylights have been set into the ceiling of the dark annex admitting ample light. To preserve the listed gatekeeper’s house, a complex solution was chosen; the building was translocated; it was taken down, each brick was indexed and stored while the new residential building in Belziger Strasse was erected. The gatehouse is being rebuilt, stone for stone, and the new building appears to hover above it.
During the 1980s and 1990s, the former manual telephone exchange hall was used as a public cantina for telecommunication staff and the neighborhood. The self-contained two-storey hall impresses with its sheer size, possible through buttresses supporting the main cornice. The surprise was big when painted ornaments were uncovered on the hall’s ceiling. Conservators carefully cleaned the murals, but renounced from restoration to keep the signs of time. Today, the former switching hall hosts the Kabbalah Centre Berlin and GRAFT Architects won several awards and nominations for its sensitive design.
During the 1980s and 1990s, the former manual telephone exchange hall was used as a public canteen for telecommunications staff and the neighborhood. The self-contained two-storey hall impresses with its sheer size, possible due to the buttresses supporting the main cornice. There was great surprise when painted ornaments were uncovered on the hall’s ceiling. The murals were carefully cleaned but not fully restored maintaining the historical impression. Today, the former switching hall accommodates the Kabbalah Centre Berlin. The interiors by GRAFT Architects have won several awards and nominations for its empathetic approach, among them the „IDA International Design Awards“ in Los Angeles.
The former workshop with the astonishing height of nearly eight meters was also refurbished whilst retaining its character. Where mechanics once repaired and maintained a fleet of vehicles, athletes now train and maintain their fitness in a Crossfit studio.
At the beginning of the refurbishment, it was planned to close the post office in the main building on the street front in Hauptstrasse; a continuation of operations was logistically impossible as the ramps were no longer available. A historical photo convinced the conservation authorities to approve an opening in the wall to allow the construction of a new delivery zone with a platform lift. This has enabled the Post Office Schöneberg to continue to provide postal services as it has done for over 115 years.
A number of courtyards throughout the complex allow meandering passage from Belziger Strasse to Hauptstrasse. Accentuated garden design breaks the stark appearance of the brickwork – the green of trees and plants contrasts with the palette of bronze hues of the buildings. A street art wall painting in the main courtyard tells the story of the complex as a post office. It is apparent that the love of detail has been a guiding principle in the transformation of BRICKS Berlin Schöneberg.
A CAREFUL RENEWAL
The refurbishment and modernization of the protected buildings and courtyards comprising BRICKS Berlin, Schöneberg was an elaborate process that was conducted with care and attention to detail. The overall leitmotif of the restoration was to reveal the former grandeur and craftsmanship of the commercially used buildings which have survived eras, such as the 1950s and 1980s, when practical function was more important than preservation.
After an intensive planning and research phase, the transformation started in 2014: All of the clinker facades were carefully restored and dry-construction fittings were removed to allow the open and spacious floor layouts of former times. Conservation specialists were able to identify the original color schemes of the 1920s in the stair wells. The ornate banisters have been raised to comply with today’s security standards while retaining the original wrought ironwork. All windows have been preserved and two new elevators installed. An extensive rooftop terrace offering stunning views of the city has been built for commercial tenants in the historical buildings.
The lofts in the main post office building and the boiler house have been converted. The roof, lost during WWII, was restored, and another storey has been added onto the rear building. The former parcel delivery rooms have been turned into food and beverage outlets and the delivery ramps are perfect as alfresco dining terraces in the secluded setting of the courtyards. The old teller’s counter room with safe on the first floor in the main post office building has been converted into an office. Hidden treasures of the ensemble are the boiler house, the gatekeeper’s house and the former hall in the switching center. The loft of the boiler house was converted and windows and a balcony added. Large skylights have been set into the ceiling of the dark annex admitting ample light. To preserve the listed gatekeeper’s house, a complex solution was chosen; the building was translocated; it was taken down, each brick was indexed and stored while the new residential building in Belziger Strasse was erected. The gatehouse is being rebuilt, stone for stone, and the new building appears to hover above it.
During the 1980s and 1990s, the former manual telephone exchange hall was used as a public cantina for telecommunication staff and the neighborhood. The self-contained two-storey hall impresses with its sheer size, possible through buttresses supporting the main cornice. The surprise was big when painted ornaments were uncovered on the hall’s ceiling. Conservators carefully cleaned the murals, but renounced from restoration to keep the signs of time. Today, the former switching hall hosts the Kabbalah Centre Berlin and GRAFT Architects won several awards and nominations for its sensitive design.
During the 1980s and 1990s, the former manual telephone exchange hall was used as a public canteen for telecommunications staff and the neighborhood. The self-contained two-storey hall impresses with its sheer size, possible due to the buttresses supporting the main cornice. There was great surprise when painted ornaments were uncovered on the hall’s ceiling. The murals were carefully cleaned but not fully restored maintaining the historical impression. Today, the former switching hall accommodates the Kabbalah Centre Berlin. The interiors by GRAFT Architects have won several awards and nominations for its empathetic approach, among them the „IDA International Design Awards“ in Los Angeles.
The former workshop with the astonishing height of nearly eight meters was also refurbished whilst retaining its character. Where mechanics once repaired and maintained a fleet of vehicles, athletes now train and maintain their fitness in a Crossfit studio.
At the beginning of the refurbishment, it was planned to close the post office in the main building on the street front in Hauptstrasse; a continuation of operations was logistically impossible as the ramps were no longer available. A historical photo convinced the conservation authorities to approve an opening in the wall to allow the construction of a new delivery zone with a platform lift. This has enabled the Post Office Schöneberg to continue to provide postal services as it has done for over 115 years.
A number of courtyards throughout the complex allow meandering passage from Belziger Strasse to Hauptstrasse. Accentuated garden design breaks the stark appearance of the brickwork – the green of trees and plants contrasts with the palette of bronze hues of the buildings. A street art wall painting in the main courtyard tells the story of the complex as a post office. It is apparent that the love of detail has been a guiding principle in the transformation of BRICKS Berlin Schöneberg.
The refurbishment and modernization of the protected buildings and courtyards comprising BRICKS Berlin, Schöneberg was an elaborate process that was conducted with care and attention to detail. The overall leitmotif of the restoration was to reveal the former grandeur and craftsmanship of the commercially used buildings which have survived eras, such as the 1950s and 1980s, when practical function was more important than preservation.
After an intensive planning and research phase, the transformation started in 2014: All of the clinker facades were carefully restored and dry-construction fittings were removed to allow the open and spacious floor layouts of former times. Conservation specialists were able to identify the original color schemes of the 1920s in the stair wells. The ornate banisters have been raised to comply with today’s security standards while retaining the original wrought ironwork. All windows have been preserved and two new elevators installed. An extensive rooftop terrace offering stunning views of the city has been built for commercial tenants in the historical buildings.
The lofts in the main post office building and the boiler house have been converted. The roof, lost during WWII, was restored, and another storey has been added onto the rear building. The former parcel delivery rooms have been turned into food and beverage outlets and the delivery ramps are perfect as alfresco dining terraces in the secluded setting of the courtyards. The old teller’s counter room with safe on the first floor in the main post office building has been converted into an office. Hidden treasures of the ensemble are the boiler house, the gatekeeper’s house and the former hall in the switching center. The loft of the boiler house was converted and windows and a balcony added. Large skylights have been set into the ceiling of the dark annex admitting ample light. To preserve the listed gatekeeper’s house, a complex solution was chosen; the building was translocated; it was taken down, each brick was indexed and stored while the new residential building in Belziger Strasse was erected. The gatehouse is being rebuilt, stone for stone, and the new building appears to hover above it.
During the 1980s and 1990s, the former manual telephone exchange hall was used as a public cantina for telecommunication staff and the neighborhood. The self-contained two-storey hall impresses with its sheer size, possible through buttresses supporting the main cornice. The surprise was big when painted ornaments were uncovered on the hall’s ceiling. Conservators carefully cleaned the murals, but renounced from restoration to keep the signs of time. Today, the former switching hall hosts the Kabbalah Centre Berlin and GRAFT Architects won several awards and nominations for its sensitive design.
During the 1980s and 1990s, the former manual telephone exchange hall was used as a public canteen for telecommunications staff and the neighborhood. The self-contained two-storey hall impresses with its sheer size, possible due to the buttresses supporting the main cornice. There was great surprise when painted ornaments were uncovered on the hall’s ceiling. The murals were carefully cleaned but not fully restored maintaining the historical impression. Today, the former switching hall accommodates the Kabbalah Centre Berlin. The interiors by GRAFT Architects have won several awards and nominations for its empathetic approach, among them the „IDA International Design Awards“ in Los Angeles.
The former workshop with the astonishing height of nearly eight meters was also refurbished whilst retaining its character. Where mechanics once repaired and maintained a fleet of vehicles, athletes now train and maintain their fitness in a Crossfit studio.
At the beginning of the refurbishment, it was planned to close the post office in the main building on the street front in Hauptstrasse; a continuation of operations was logistically impossible as the ramps were no longer available. A historical photo convinced the conservation authorities to approve an opening in the wall to allow the construction of a new delivery zone with a platform lift. This has enabled the Post Office Schöneberg to continue to provide postal services as it has done for over 115 years.
A number of courtyards throughout the complex allow meandering passage from Belziger Strasse to Hauptstrasse. Accentuated garden design breaks the stark appearance of the brickwork – the green of trees and plants contrasts with the palette of bronze hues of the buildings. A street art wall painting in the main courtyard tells the story of the complex as a post office. It is apparent that the love of detail has been a guiding principle in the transformation of BRICKS Berlin Schöneberg.
A CAREFUL RENEWAL
The refurbishment and modernization of the protected buildings and courtyards comprising BRICKS Berlin, Schöneberg was an elaborate process that was conducted with care and attention to detail. The overall leitmotif of the restoration was to reveal the former grandeur and craftsmanship of the commercially used buildings which have survived eras, such as the 1950s and 1980s, when practical function was more important than preservation.
After an intensive planning and research phase, the transformation started in 2014: All of the clinker facades were carefully restored and dry-construction fittings were removed to allow the open and spacious floor layouts of former times. Conservation specialists were able to identify the original color schemes of the 1920s in the stair wells. The ornate banisters have been raised to comply with today’s security standards while retaining the original wrought ironwork. All windows have been preserved and two new elevators installed. An extensive rooftop terrace offering stunning views of the city has been built for commercial tenants in the historical buildings.
The lofts in the main post office building and the boiler house have been converted. The roof, lost during WWII, was restored, and another storey has been added onto the rear building. The former parcel delivery rooms have been turned into food and beverage outlets and the delivery ramps are perfect as alfresco dining terraces in the secluded setting of the courtyards. The old teller’s counter room with safe on the first floor in the main post office building has been converted into an office. Hidden treasures of the ensemble are the boiler house, the gatekeeper’s house and the former hall in the switching center. The loft of the boiler house was converted and windows and a balcony added. Large skylights have been set into the ceiling of the dark annex admitting ample light. To preserve the listed gatekeeper’s house, a complex solution was chosen; the building was translocated; it was taken down, each brick was indexed and stored while the new residential building in Belziger Strasse was erected. The gatehouse is being rebuilt, stone for stone, and the new building appears to hover above it.
During the 1980s and 1990s, the former manual telephone exchange hall was used as a public cantina for telecommunication staff and the neighborhood. The self-contained two-storey hall impresses with its sheer size, possible through buttresses supporting the main cornice. The surprise was big when painted ornaments were uncovered on the hall’s ceiling. Conservators carefully cleaned the murals, but renounced from restoration to keep the signs of time. Today, the former switching hall hosts the Kabbalah Centre Berlin and GRAFT Architects won several awards and nominations for its sensitive design.
During the 1980s and 1990s, the former manual telephone exchange hall was used as a public canteen for telecommunications staff and the neighborhood. The self-contained two-storey hall impresses with its sheer size, possible due to the buttresses supporting the main cornice. There was great surprise when painted ornaments were uncovered on the hall’s ceiling. The murals were carefully cleaned but not fully restored maintaining the historical impression. Today, the former switching hall accommodates the Kabbalah Centre Berlin. The interiors by GRAFT Architects have won several awards and nominations for its empathetic approach, among them the „IDA International Design Awards“ in Los Angeles.
The former workshop with the astonishing height of nearly eight meters was also refurbished whilst retaining its character. Where mechanics once repaired and maintained a fleet of vehicles, athletes now train and maintain their fitness in a Crossfit studio.
At the beginning of the refurbishment, it was planned to close the post office in the main building on the street front in Hauptstrasse; a continuation of operations was logistically impossible as the ramps were no longer available. A historical photo convinced the conservation authorities to approve an opening in the wall to allow the construction of a new delivery zone with a platform lift. This has enabled the Post Office Schöneberg to continue to provide postal services as it has done for over 115 years.
A number of courtyards throughout the complex allow meandering passage from Belziger Strasse to Hauptstrasse. Accentuated garden design breaks the stark appearance of the brickwork – the green of trees and plants contrasts with the palette of bronze hues of the buildings. A street art wall painting in the main courtyard tells the story of the complex as a post office. It is apparent that the love of detail has been a guiding principle in the transformation of BRICKS Berlin Schöneberg.
The refurbishment and modernization of the protected buildings and courtyards comprising BRICKS Berlin, Schöneberg was an elaborate process that was conducted with care and attention to detail. The overall leitmotif of the restoration was to reveal the former grandeur and craftsmanship of the commercially used buildings which have survived eras, such as the 1950s and 1980s, when practical function was more important than preservation.
After an intensive planning and research phase, the transformation started in 2014: All of the clinker facades were carefully restored and dry-construction fittings were removed to allow the open and spacious floor layouts of former times. Conservation specialists were able to identify the original color schemes of the 1920s in the stair wells. The ornate banisters have been raised to comply with today’s security standards while retaining the original wrought ironwork. All windows have been preserved and two new elevators installed. An extensive rooftop terrace offering stunning views of the city has been built for commercial tenants in the historical buildings.
The lofts in the main post office building and the boiler house have been converted. The roof, lost during WWII, was restored, and another storey has been added onto the rear building. The former parcel delivery rooms have been turned into food and beverage outlets and the delivery ramps are perfect as alfresco dining terraces in the secluded setting of the courtyards. The old teller’s counter room with safe on the first floor in the main post office building has been converted into an office. Hidden treasures of the ensemble are the boiler house, the gatekeeper’s house and the former hall in the switching center. The loft of the boiler house was converted and windows and a balcony added. Large skylights have been set into the ceiling of the dark annex admitting ample light. To preserve the listed gatekeeper’s house, a complex solution was chosen; the building was translocated; it was taken down, each brick was indexed and stored while the new residential building in Belziger Strasse was erected. The gatehouse is being rebuilt, stone for stone, and the new building appears to hover above it.
During the 1980s and 1990s, the former manual telephone exchange hall was used as a public cantina for telecommunication staff and the neighborhood. The self-contained two-storey hall impresses with its sheer size, possible through buttresses supporting the main cornice. The surprise was big when painted ornaments were uncovered on the hall’s ceiling. Conservators carefully cleaned the murals, but renounced from restoration to keep the signs of time. Today, the former switching hall hosts the Kabbalah Centre Berlin and GRAFT Architects won several awards and nominations for its sensitive design.
During the 1980s and 1990s, the former manual telephone exchange hall was used as a public canteen for telecommunications staff and the neighborhood. The self-contained two-storey hall impresses with its sheer size, possible due to the buttresses supporting the main cornice. There was great surprise when painted ornaments were uncovered on the hall’s ceiling. The murals were carefully cleaned but not fully restored maintaining the historical impression. Today, the former switching hall accommodates the Kabbalah Centre Berlin. The interiors by GRAFT Architects have won several awards and nominations for its empathetic approach, among them the „IDA International Design Awards“ in Los Angeles.
The former workshop with the astonishing height of nearly eight meters was also refurbished whilst retaining its character. Where mechanics once repaired and maintained a fleet of vehicles, athletes now train and maintain their fitness in a Crossfit studio.
At the beginning of the refurbishment, it was planned to close the post office in the main building on the street front in Hauptstrasse; a continuation of operations was logistically impossible as the ramps were no longer available. A historical photo convinced the conservation authorities to approve an opening in the wall to allow the construction of a new delivery zone with a platform lift. This has enabled the Post Office Schöneberg to continue to provide postal services as it has done for over 115 years.
A number of courtyards throughout the complex allow meandering passage from Belziger Strasse to Hauptstrasse. Accentuated garden design breaks the stark appearance of the brickwork – the green of trees and plants contrasts with the palette of bronze hues of the buildings. A street art wall painting in the main courtyard tells the story of the complex as a post office. It is apparent that the love of detail has been a guiding principle in the transformation of BRICKS Berlin Schöneberg.
A CAREFUL RENEWAL
The refurbishment and modernization of the protected buildings and courtyards comprising BRICKS Berlin, Schöneberg was an elaborate process that was conducted with care and attention to detail. The overall leitmotif of the restoration was to reveal the former grandeur and craftsmanship of the commercially used buildings which have survived eras, such as the 1950s and 1980s, when practical function was more important than preservation.
After an intensive planning and research phase, the transformation started in 2014: All of the clinker facades were carefully restored and dry-construction fittings were removed to allow the open and spacious floor layouts of former times. Conservation specialists were able to identify the original color schemes of the 1920s in the stair wells. The ornate banisters have been raised to comply with today’s security standards while retaining the original wrought ironwork. All windows have been preserved and two new elevators installed. An extensive rooftop terrace offering stunning views of the city has been built for commercial tenants in the historical buildings.
The lofts in the main post office building and the boiler house have been converted. The roof, lost during WWII, was restored, and another storey has been added onto the rear building. The former parcel delivery rooms have been turned into food and beverage outlets and the delivery ramps are perfect as alfresco dining terraces in the secluded setting of the courtyards. The old teller’s counter room with safe on the first floor in the main post office building has been converted into an office. Hidden treasures of the ensemble are the boiler house, the gatekeeper’s house and the former hall in the switching center. The loft of the boiler house was converted and windows and a balcony added. Large skylights have been set into the ceiling of the dark annex admitting ample light. To preserve the listed gatekeeper’s house, a complex solution was chosen; the building was translocated; it was taken down, each brick was indexed and stored while the new residential building in Belziger Strasse was erected. The gatehouse is being rebuilt, stone for stone, and the new building appears to hover above it.
During the 1980s and 1990s, the former manual telephone exchange hall was used as a public cantina for telecommunication staff and the neighborhood. The self-contained two-storey hall impresses with its sheer size, possible through buttresses supporting the main cornice. The surprise was big when painted ornaments were uncovered on the hall’s ceiling. Conservators carefully cleaned the murals, but renounced from restoration to keep the signs of time. Today, the former switching hall hosts the Kabbalah Centre Berlin and GRAFT Architects won several awards and nominations for its sensitive design.
During the 1980s and 1990s, the former manual telephone exchange hall was used as a public canteen for telecommunications staff and the neighborhood. The self-contained two-storey hall impresses with its sheer size, possible due to the buttresses supporting the main cornice. There was great surprise when painted ornaments were uncovered on the hall’s ceiling. The murals were carefully cleaned but not fully restored maintaining the historical impression. Today, the former switching hall accommodates the Kabbalah Centre Berlin. The interiors by GRAFT Architects have won several awards and nominations for its empathetic approach, among them the „IDA International Design Awards“ in Los Angeles.
The former workshop with the astonishing height of nearly eight meters was also refurbished whilst retaining its character. Where mechanics once repaired and maintained a fleet of vehicles, athletes now train and maintain their fitness in a Crossfit studio.
At the beginning of the refurbishment, it was planned to close the post office in the main building on the street front in Hauptstrasse; a continuation of operations was logistically impossible as the ramps were no longer available. A historical photo convinced the conservation authorities to approve an opening in the wall to allow the construction of a new delivery zone with a platform lift. This has enabled the Post Office Schöneberg to continue to provide postal services as it has done for over 115 years.
A number of courtyards throughout the complex allow meandering passage from Belziger Strasse to Hauptstrasse. Accentuated garden design breaks the stark appearance of the brickwork – the green of trees and plants contrasts with the palette of bronze hues of the buildings. A street art wall painting in the main courtyard tells the story of the complex as a post office. It is apparent that the love of detail has been a guiding principle in the transformation of BRICKS Berlin Schöneberg.
The refurbishment and modernization of the protected buildings and courtyards comprising BRICKS Berlin, Schöneberg was an elaborate process that was conducted with care and attention to detail. The overall leitmotif of the restoration was to reveal the former grandeur and craftsmanship of the commercially used buildings which have survived eras, such as the 1950s and 1980s, when practical function was more important than preservation.
After an intensive planning and research phase, the transformation started in 2014: All of the clinker facades were carefully restored and dry-construction fittings were removed to allow the open and spacious floor layouts of former times. Conservation specialists were able to identify the original color schemes of the 1920s in the stair wells. The ornate banisters have been raised to comply with today’s security standards while retaining the original wrought ironwork. All windows have been preserved and two new elevators installed. An extensive rooftop terrace offering stunning views of the city has been built for commercial tenants in the historical buildings.
The lofts in the main post office building and the boiler house have been converted. The roof, lost during WWII, was restored, and another storey has been added onto the rear building. The former parcel delivery rooms have been turned into food and beverage outlets and the delivery ramps are perfect as alfresco dining terraces in the secluded setting of the courtyards. The old teller’s counter room with safe on the first floor in the main post office building has been converted into an office. Hidden treasures of the ensemble are the boiler house, the gatekeeper’s house and the former hall in the switching center. The loft of the boiler house was converted and windows and a balcony added. Large skylights have been set into the ceiling of the dark annex admitting ample light. To preserve the listed gatekeeper’s house, a complex solution was chosen; the building was translocated; it was taken down, each brick was indexed and stored while the new residential building in Belziger Strasse was erected. The gatehouse is being rebuilt, stone for stone, and the new building appears to hover above it.
During the 1980s and 1990s, the former manual telephone exchange hall was used as a public cantina for telecommunication staff and the neighborhood. The self-contained two-storey hall impresses with its sheer size, possible through buttresses supporting the main cornice. The surprise was big when painted ornaments were uncovered on the hall’s ceiling. Conservators carefully cleaned the murals, but renounced from restoration to keep the signs of time. Today, the former switching hall hosts the Kabbalah Centre Berlin and GRAFT Architects won several awards and nominations for its sensitive design.
During the 1980s and 1990s, the former manual telephone exchange hall was used as a public canteen for telecommunications staff and the neighborhood. The self-contained two-storey hall impresses with its sheer size, possible due to the buttresses supporting the main cornice. There was great surprise when painted ornaments were uncovered on the hall’s ceiling. The murals were carefully cleaned but not fully restored maintaining the historical impression. Today, the former switching hall accommodates the Kabbalah Centre Berlin. The interiors by GRAFT Architects have won several awards and nominations for its empathetic approach, among them the „IDA International Design Awards“ in Los Angeles.
The former workshop with the astonishing height of nearly eight meters was also refurbished whilst retaining its character. Where mechanics once repaired and maintained a fleet of vehicles, athletes now train and maintain their fitness in a Crossfit studio.
At the beginning of the refurbishment, it was planned to close the post office in the main building on the street front in Hauptstrasse; a continuation of operations was logistically impossible as the ramps were no longer available. A historical photo convinced the conservation authorities to approve an opening in the wall to allow the construction of a new delivery zone with a platform lift. This has enabled the Post Office Schöneberg to continue to provide postal services as it has done for over 115 years.
A number of courtyards throughout the complex allow meandering passage from Belziger Strasse to Hauptstrasse. Accentuated garden design breaks the stark appearance of the brickwork – the green of trees and plants contrasts with the palette of bronze hues of the buildings. A street art wall painting in the main courtyard tells the story of the complex as a post office. It is apparent that the love of detail has been a guiding principle in the transformation of BRICKS Berlin Schöneberg.
A CAREFUL RENEWAL
The refurbishment and modernization of the protected buildings and courtyards comprising BRICKS Berlin, Schöneberg was an elaborate process that was conducted with care and attention to detail. The overall leitmotif of the restoration was to reveal the former grandeur and craftsmanship of the commercially used buildings which have survived eras, such as the 1950s and 1980s, when practical function was more important than preservation.
After an intensive planning and research phase, the transformation started in 2014: All of the clinker facades were carefully restored and dry-construction fittings were removed to allow the open and spacious floor layouts of former times. Conservation specialists were able to identify the original color schemes of the 1920s in the stair wells. The ornate banisters have been raised to comply with today’s security standards while retaining the original wrought ironwork. All windows have been preserved and two new elevators installed. An extensive rooftop terrace offering stunning views of the city has been built for commercial tenants in the historical buildings.
The lofts in the main post office building and the boiler house have been converted. The roof, lost during WWII, was restored, and another storey has been added onto the rear building. The former parcel delivery rooms have been turned into food and beverage outlets and the delivery ramps are perfect as alfresco dining terraces in the secluded setting of the courtyards. The old teller’s counter room with safe on the first floor in the main post office building has been converted into an office. Hidden treasures of the ensemble are the boiler house, the gatekeeper’s house and the former hall in the switching center. The loft of the boiler house was converted and windows and a balcony added. Large skylights have been set into the ceiling of the dark annex admitting ample light. To preserve the listed gatekeeper’s house, a complex solution was chosen; the building was translocated; it was taken down, each brick was indexed and stored while the new residential building in Belziger Strasse was erected. The gatehouse is being rebuilt, stone for stone, and the new building appears to hover above it.
During the 1980s and 1990s, the former manual telephone exchange hall was used as a public cantina for telecommunication staff and the neighborhood. The self-contained two-storey hall impresses with its sheer size, possible through buttresses supporting the main cornice. The surprise was big when painted ornaments were uncovered on the hall’s ceiling. Conservators carefully cleaned the murals, but renounced from restoration to keep the signs of time. Today, the former switching hall hosts the Kabbalah Centre Berlin and GRAFT Architects won several awards and nominations for its sensitive design.
During the 1980s and 1990s, the former manual telephone exchange hall was used as a public canteen for telecommunications staff and the neighborhood. The self-contained two-storey hall impresses with its sheer size, possible due to the buttresses supporting the main cornice. There was great surprise when painted ornaments were uncovered on the hall’s ceiling. The murals were carefully cleaned but not fully restored maintaining the historical impression. Today, the former switching hall accommodates the Kabbalah Centre Berlin. The interiors by GRAFT Architects have won several awards and nominations for its empathetic approach, among them the „IDA International Design Awards“ in Los Angeles.
The former workshop with the astonishing height of nearly eight meters was also refurbished whilst retaining its character. Where mechanics once repaired and maintained a fleet of vehicles, athletes now train and maintain their fitness in a Crossfit studio.
At the beginning of the refurbishment, it was planned to close the post office in the main building on the street front in Hauptstrasse; a continuation of operations was logistically impossible as the ramps were no longer available. A historical photo convinced the conservation authorities to approve an opening in the wall to allow the construction of a new delivery zone with a platform lift. This has enabled the Post Office Schöneberg to continue to provide postal services as it has done for over 115 years.
A number of courtyards throughout the complex allow meandering passage from Belziger Strasse to Hauptstrasse. Accentuated garden design breaks the stark appearance of the brickwork – the green of trees and plants contrasts with the palette of bronze hues of the buildings. A street art wall painting in the main courtyard tells the story of the complex as a post office. It is apparent that the love of detail has been a guiding principle in the transformation of BRICKS Berlin Schöneberg.
The refurbishment and modernization of the protected buildings and courtyards comprising BRICKS Berlin, Schöneberg was an elaborate process that was conducted with care and attention to detail. The overall leitmotif of the restoration was to reveal the former grandeur and craftsmanship of the commercially used buildings which have survived eras, such as the 1950s and 1980s, when practical function was more important than preservation.
After an intensive planning and research phase, the transformation started in 2014: All of the clinker facades were carefully restored and dry-construction fittings were removed to allow the open and spacious floor layouts of former times. Conservation specialists were able to identify the original color schemes of the 1920s in the stair wells. The ornate banisters have been raised to comply with today’s security standards while retaining the original wrought ironwork. All windows have been preserved and two new elevators installed. An extensive rooftop terrace offering stunning views of the city has been built for commercial tenants in the historical buildings.
The lofts in the main post office building and the boiler house have been converted. The roof, lost during WWII, was restored, and another storey has been added onto the rear building. The former parcel delivery rooms have been turned into food and beverage outlets and the delivery ramps are perfect as alfresco dining terraces in the secluded setting of the courtyards. The old teller’s counter room with safe on the first floor in the main post office building has been converted into an office. Hidden treasures of the ensemble are the boiler house, the gatekeeper’s house and the former hall in the switching center. The loft of the boiler house was converted and windows and a balcony added. Large skylights have been set into the ceiling of the dark annex admitting ample light. To preserve the listed gatekeeper’s house, a complex solution was chosen; the building was translocated; it was taken down, each brick was indexed and stored while the new residential building in Belziger Strasse was erected. The gatehouse is being rebuilt, stone for stone, and the new building appears to hover above it.
During the 1980s and 1990s, the former manual telephone exchange hall was used as a public cantina for telecommunication staff and the neighborhood. The self-contained two-storey hall impresses with its sheer size, possible through buttresses supporting the main cornice. The surprise was big when painted ornaments were uncovered on the hall’s ceiling. Conservators carefully cleaned the murals, but renounced from restoration to keep the signs of time. Today, the former switching hall hosts the Kabbalah Centre Berlin and GRAFT Architects won several awards and nominations for its sensitive design.
During the 1980s and 1990s, the former manual telephone exchange hall was used as a public canteen for telecommunications staff and the neighborhood. The self-contained two-storey hall impresses with its sheer size, possible due to the buttresses supporting the main cornice. There was great surprise when painted ornaments were uncovered on the hall’s ceiling. The murals were carefully cleaned but not fully restored maintaining the historical impression. Today, the former switching hall accommodates the Kabbalah Centre Berlin. The interiors by GRAFT Architects have won several awards and nominations for its empathetic approach, among them the „IDA International Design Awards“ in Los Angeles.
The former workshop with the astonishing height of nearly eight meters was also refurbished whilst retaining its character. Where mechanics once repaired and maintained a fleet of vehicles, athletes now train and maintain their fitness in a Crossfit studio.
At the beginning of the refurbishment, it was planned to close the post office in the main building on the street front in Hauptstrasse; a continuation of operations was logistically impossible as the ramps were no longer available. A historical photo convinced the conservation authorities to approve an opening in the wall to allow the construction of a new delivery zone with a platform lift. This has enabled the Post Office Schöneberg to continue to provide postal services as it has done for over 115 years.
A number of courtyards throughout the complex allow meandering passage from Belziger Strasse to Hauptstrasse. Accentuated garden design breaks the stark appearance of the brickwork – the green of trees and plants contrasts with the palette of bronze hues of the buildings. A street art wall painting in the main courtyard tells the story of the complex as a post office. It is apparent that the love of detail has been a guiding principle in the transformation of BRICKS Berlin Schöneberg.
A CAREFUL RENEWAL
The refurbishment and modernization of the protected buildings and courtyards comprising BRICKS Berlin, Schöneberg was an elaborate process that was conducted with care and attention to detail. The overall leitmotif of the restoration was to reveal the former grandeur and craftsmanship of the commercially used buildings which have survived eras, such as the 1950s and 1980s, when practical function was more important than preservation.
After an intensive planning and research phase, the transformation started in 2014: All of the clinker facades were carefully restored and dry-construction fittings were removed to allow the open and spacious floor layouts of former times. Conservation specialists were able to identify the original color schemes of the 1920s in the stair wells. The ornate banisters have been raised to comply with today’s security standards while retaining the original wrought ironwork. All windows have been preserved and two new elevators installed. An extensive rooftop terrace offering stunning views of the city has been built for commercial tenants in the historical buildings.
The lofts in the main post office building and the boiler house have been converted. The roof, lost during WWII, was restored, and another storey has been added onto the rear building. The former parcel delivery rooms have been turned into food and beverage outlets and the delivery ramps are perfect as alfresco dining terraces in the secluded setting of the courtyards. The old teller’s counter room with safe on the first floor in the main post office building has been converted into an office. Hidden treasures of the ensemble are the boiler house, the gatekeeper’s house and the former hall in the switching center. The loft of the boiler house was converted and windows and a balcony added. Large skylights have been set into the ceiling of the dark annex admitting ample light. To preserve the listed gatekeeper’s house, a complex solution was chosen; the building was translocated; it was taken down, each brick was indexed and stored while the new residential building in Belziger Strasse was erected. The gatehouse is being rebuilt, stone for stone, and the new building appears to hover above it.
During the 1980s and 1990s, the former manual telephone exchange hall was used as a public cantina for telecommunication staff and the neighborhood. The self-contained two-storey hall impresses with its sheer size, possible through buttresses supporting the main cornice. The surprise was big when painted ornaments were uncovered on the hall’s ceiling. Conservators carefully cleaned the murals, but renounced from restoration to keep the signs of time. Today, the former switching hall hosts the Kabbalah Centre Berlin and GRAFT Architects won several awards and nominations for its sensitive design.
During the 1980s and 1990s, the former manual telephone exchange hall was used as a public canteen for telecommunications staff and the neighborhood. The self-contained two-storey hall impresses with its sheer size, possible due to the buttresses supporting the main cornice. There was great surprise when painted ornaments were uncovered on the hall’s ceiling. The murals were carefully cleaned but not fully restored maintaining the historical impression. Today, the former switching hall accommodates the Kabbalah Centre Berlin. The interiors by GRAFT Architects have won several awards and nominations for its empathetic approach, among them the „IDA International Design Awards“ in Los Angeles.
The former workshop with the astonishing height of nearly eight meters was also refurbished whilst retaining its character. Where mechanics once repaired and maintained a fleet of vehicles, athletes now train and maintain their fitness in a Crossfit studio.
At the beginning of the refurbishment, it was planned to close the post office in the main building on the street front in Hauptstrasse; a continuation of operations was logistically impossible as the ramps were no longer available. A historical photo convinced the conservation authorities to approve an opening in the wall to allow the construction of a new delivery zone with a platform lift. This has enabled the Post Office Schöneberg to continue to provide postal services as it has done for over 115 years.
A number of courtyards throughout the complex allow meandering passage from Belziger Strasse to Hauptstrasse. Accentuated garden design breaks the stark appearance of the brickwork – the green of trees and plants contrasts with the palette of bronze hues of the buildings. A street art wall painting in the main courtyard tells the story of the complex as a post office. It is apparent that the love of detail has been a guiding principle in the transformation of BRICKS Berlin Schöneberg.
The refurbishment and modernization of the protected buildings and courtyards comprising BRICKS Berlin, Schöneberg was an elaborate process that was conducted with care and attention to detail. The overall leitmotif of the restoration was to reveal the former grandeur and craftsmanship of the commercially used buildings which have survived eras, such as the 1950s and 1980s, when practical function was more important than preservation.
After an intensive planning and research phase, the transformation started in 2014: All of the clinker facades were carefully restored and dry-construction fittings were removed to allow the open and spacious floor layouts of former times. Conservation specialists were able to identify the original color schemes of the 1920s in the stair wells. The ornate banisters have been raised to comply with today’s security standards while retaining the original wrought ironwork. All windows have been preserved and two new elevators installed. An extensive rooftop terrace offering stunning views of the city has been built for commercial tenants in the historical buildings.
The lofts in the main post office building and the boiler house have been converted. The roof, lost during WWII, was restored, and another storey has been added onto the rear building. The former parcel delivery rooms have been turned into food and beverage outlets and the delivery ramps are perfect as alfresco dining terraces in the secluded setting of the courtyards. The old teller’s counter room with safe on the first floor in the main post office building has been converted into an office. Hidden treasures of the ensemble are the boiler house, the gatekeeper’s house and the former hall in the switching center. The loft of the boiler house was converted and windows and a balcony added. Large skylights have been set into the ceiling of the dark annex admitting ample light. To preserve the listed gatekeeper’s house, a complex solution was chosen; the building was translocated; it was taken down, each brick was indexed and stored while the new residential building in Belziger Strasse was erected. The gatehouse is being rebuilt, stone for stone, and the new building appears to hover above it.
During the 1980s and 1990s, the former manual telephone exchange hall was used as a public cantina for telecommunication staff and the neighborhood. The self-contained two-storey hall impresses with its sheer size, possible through buttresses supporting the main cornice. The surprise was big when painted ornaments were uncovered on the hall’s ceiling. Conservators carefully cleaned the murals, but renounced from restoration to keep the signs of time. Today, the former switching hall hosts the Kabbalah Centre Berlin and GRAFT Architects won several awards and nominations for its sensitive design.
During the 1980s and 1990s, the former manual telephone exchange hall was used as a public canteen for telecommunications staff and the neighborhood. The self-contained two-storey hall impresses with its sheer size, possible due to the buttresses supporting the main cornice. There was great surprise when painted ornaments were uncovered on the hall’s ceiling. The murals were carefully cleaned but not fully restored maintaining the historical impression. Today, the former switching hall accommodates the Kabbalah Centre Berlin. The interiors by GRAFT Architects have won several awards and nominations for its empathetic approach, among them the „IDA International Design Awards“ in Los Angeles.
The former workshop with the astonishing height of nearly eight meters was also refurbished whilst retaining its character. Where mechanics once repaired and maintained a fleet of vehicles, athletes now train and maintain their fitness in a Crossfit studio.
At the beginning of the refurbishment, it was planned to close the post office in the main building on the street front in Hauptstrasse; a continuation of operations was logistically impossible as the ramps were no longer available. A historical photo convinced the conservation authorities to approve an opening in the wall to allow the construction of a new delivery zone with a platform lift. This has enabled the Post Office Schöneberg to continue to provide postal services as it has done for over 115 years.
A number of courtyards throughout the complex allow meandering passage from Belziger Strasse to Hauptstrasse. Accentuated garden design breaks the stark appearance of the brickwork – the green of trees and plants contrasts with the palette of bronze hues of the buildings. A street art wall painting in the main courtyard tells the story of the complex as a post office. It is apparent that the love of detail has been a guiding principle in the transformation of BRICKS Berlin Schöneberg.