Terraced house renovation, Dorfstraße 32, Schashagen | Germany

An over 100 year old building ensemble becomes a contemporary residence: during the renovation of Dorfstraße 32 in Schashagen in the state of Schleswig-Holstein, Bernd Schmutz Architekten have identified the qualities of the existing building and refined them using targeted changes. Natural materials, a sustainable construction method and a sophisticated colour concept characterise the new rooms.

The building, which was constructed in the mid 1900s, consists of three terraced houses with a total floor space of around 250 sqm. The original floor plans have been significantly modified over the centuries through numerous alterations. The architectural practice from Berlin rearranged the room structures based on the original typology of the house. Existing qualities were retained, later changes removed and amendments made where new uses required it. A new veranda extends the building to the adjoining orchard and strengthens the link between the interior and outdoor space.

The conscious use of resources was an essential part of the renovation concept. Natural and low-carbon materials were used predominantly. Hempcrete and wood fibres take on the task of insulation, sieved earth from a neighbouring field is used for soundproofing among other things and timber constructions supplement the existing building. The materiality and construction are thus not hidden but determine the character of the rooms. The power supply was focused on renewable energy.

Bold colours in the interior set specific contrasts to the understated atmosphere of the rooms. Terracotta floor tiles meet various green tones, natural wood surfaces and brass details in the kitchen. The colour concept is particularly noticeable in the bathrooms: deep blue tiles on the walls and ceiling, which are reminiscent of Frisian blue porcelain, contrast with white surfaces and the warm red tone of the floor.

The electrical installation is part of this colour scheme. LS 990 in white blends subtly into the wall surfaces in the light lounge areas. Switches and room thermostats in the bathroom in LS 990 in the shade 4320K bleu outremer 59 from Les Couleurs® Le Corbusier® pick up the intensive blue tone of the tiles. Instead of contrasting with the surface, the operating elements thus become a natural element of the colourful building fabric. The clear, square shape of the classic switch supports the linear design of the interior spaces.

The alterations thus remain closely linked with the existing building and give the houses a new spatial and creative quality.