End Terrace House bb13, Hamburg | Germany

With bb13, Clara and Gunnar Zachariassen transformed a terraced house from the 1950s into a contemporary home for four people. The starting point of the intervention was a terraced house which had been standing empty for many years and which was in a poor state both structurally and technically. The renovation and redesign links the spatial reorganisation with a consistent material strategy: existing materials were partially reconverted and used directly on site in a new function. A modern residential building which refines the existing property emerged on a total surface area of 188 m², of which 131 m² is living space.

The building was redefined through targeted interventions such as the relocation of the entrance door and the installation of a large arched window to the garden. In combination with the reorganisation of the interior, the garden can now be experienced as an extension of the living room. Reuse and upcycling strategies were the central guiding principle of the structural restoration. Worktops have thus found a new use as steps and a marble kitchen top was used as a washstand in the bathroom. Existing materials were also reworked in the exterior such as the use of old bricks for the garden design. When using new materials, ecological building materials were implemented including cellulose and mineral wool as insulation or lime and clay plaster which support a balanced indoor climate.

The choice of materials and surfaces inside follows a sustainable, robust aesthetic: natural fabrics, visible structures, recycled components and a fine balance between old and new gives the interior both character and comfort. In line with this, the JUNG switch and socket range LS 990 in stainless steel was selected and used consistently throughout the building. The stainless steel surface blends optimally into the reduced material world. The metal surface is durable and easy-care while the simple styling of LS 990 corresponds with the restrained interior design.

The transformation of bb13 links the history of the building with a sustainable reconstruction, without losing its identity. Between rough concrete, warm wood and soft lighting which passes into the living room through the new arched window, a reserved, natural living atmosphere is created which radiates calmness and is intended for the long term.