In a balancing act of conflicting priorities in historic building protection and contemporary needs, new office spaces and ateliers were created on the premises of a former horse clinic dating from 1904, located in the Sternschanze District, Hamburg. The dilapidated buildings of the slightly hidden site in a backyard, most of which had been vacant for several years, have been refurbished while preserving historic elements. A four-storey new building adjoins to the firewall of the distinctive historic brick building in the neighbouring yard, its orientation continuing the urban development of the district. The ensemble surrounds a large greened inner courtyard on top of a new underground car park, a particularly valuable large, old lime tree provides the visual centre. The delicate relief of the brickwork façade takes reference from the special industrial atmosphere of the location and supports the ensemble effect, the harmonious unity of old and new.

Photos: Klaus Frahm, SMP