The Apartment in the Panzerhalle Attic: From Vehicle Warehouse to Multifunctional Building
Starting from an architectural competition in 2013, Smartvoll architects managed to win an award for the design of an attic apartment in the Panzerhalle. Panzerhalle itself is an old building that has been repurposed from a military vehicle warehouse into a multifunctional space, including a supermarket, restaurants, spa facilities, and office areas. The attic area was designed to become a unique apartment by Smartvoll.
The image above shows the exterior view of Panzerhalle, a solid brick building that adorns the entire structure. It still retains the appearance of a warehouse, but the interior tells a different story.
Returning to the topic of the apartment within this building, with an area of 350 square meters, the architects managed to create a dramatic space that turns the large and high-ceilinged area into two levels.
Concrete is the primary material and a key concept in shaping the impression of this space. The curved concrete staircase in certain parts of the structure is truly iconic. It beautifully combines with the natural material of the brick walls. The branching staircase also acts as a supporting structure for the upper floor.
The architects themselves admit that they aimed to create a modern space without forgetting the inherent beauty of the place. The loft concept was achieved through various design approaches. The upper floor functions as an open bedroom with glass windows on all sides.
Instead of filling the entire space with natural light, the building minimizes the use of dividing partitions between rooms. The kitchen, at the heart of the structure, is located directly beneath the staircase. Daylight entering through the upper floor windows illuminates the entire space. The staircase's balustrade is also transparent, ensuring that the view from below to above is not obstructed.
The curved staircase also forms the roof of the kitchen, which stretches for seven meters and includes furniture for growing plants.
The upper floor bedroom benefits from maximum daylight during the day, both from the room's own walls and from the opposite wall.
Concrete in this building plays a crucial role as a structural element, core structure, floor, and ceiling. Besides reflecting light effectively, it also gives a modern impression to the overall space.
Another unique feature of this apartment is the suspended and transparent glass shower cube. This shower space provides a unique bathing experience with a height of about five meters from the floor below.
At this height, the bedroom can be hidden with a white curtain to filter incoming light. The living area is equipped with translucent glass. The hanging furniture appears as an integral part of the entire structure.
On the lower floor, on both sides of the building connected to the kitchen, there are two balconies. These balconies are referred to as "zen gardens," complete with grassy hills, jasmine trees, and spacious terraces for relaxation. Here, visitors can also enjoy urban views from above.
Source: http://www.archdaily.com/
