When it comes to architecture, the transformation of spaces can be an art form in itself. This is especially true for the recent project by Holzrausch, a Munich-based firm, which has breathed new life into a penthouse in Frankfurt. What makes this renovation particularly fascinating is the way it blends the old with the new, creating a unique and captivating living space.
A Contemporary Roof Garden
The owners, Robert and Patricia Volhard, saw an opportunity to elevate their living experience when the building's roof needed replacement. They envisioned a roof garden, a sanctuary in the city, and entrusted Holzrausch to bring this vision to life. The result is a stunning two-storey extension that offers an open, bright, and contemporary take on urban living.
Redefining the Mansard
One of the key challenges was to avoid the typical constraints of a mansard roof. The original building, dating back to the Wilhelminian era, featured a traditional mansard roof. However, the clients wanted something different. Holzrausch's solution was ingenious: a contemporary crown that sits atop the historic base, creating a distinct and modern spatial logic.
The new roof structure boasts vertical walls and an open-plan layout, a stark contrast to the sloping ceilings and compartmentalized rooms of a conventional mansard attic. This design choice not only provides a unique living experience but also pays homage to the building's historical roots.
A Calm and Crafted Interior
Holzrausch worked closely with the Volhards to develop an interior scheme that complements their extensive art and furniture collection. The aim, as cofounder Tobias Petri puts it, was to create a distinct shift in atmosphere, a transition to openness, light, and comfort. The material palette, chosen for its tactile and refined qualities, creates an 'arschgemütlich' (exceptionally cosy) ambiance.
The influence of Studio Mumbai, an Indian architecture practice, is evident in the warm surfaces and gentle forms throughout the home. The continuous kambala wood panelling unifies the spaces, adding a sense of flow and continuity. This approach is further enhanced by the simple yet enduring materials chosen, such as solid wood, terrazzo, and brushed stainless steel, which will develop a beautiful patina over time.
Connecting Spaces and Staircases
The penthouse's three levels are connected by two distinct staircases. The approach stair, carpeted in blue, provides a darker and more intimate entry into the main living area. In contrast, the upper floor is accessed via a sculptural spiral staircase, inspired by a similar piece encountered by the client in a Frankfurt boutique. This staircase, illuminated by a large skylight, adds a touch of drama and elegance to the space.
A Terrace with a View
The pièce de résistance of this renovation is undoubtedly the roof terrace. Overlooking the city, it offers a peaceful retreat amidst the urban landscape. Natural light floods the extension through various openings, including the glazed frontage, creating a seamless connection between indoor and outdoor spaces. The nearby trees provide a natural screen, adding to the sense of tranquility.
A Holistic Approach
Holzrausch's holistic design philosophy is evident in this project. The firm's attention to detail and craft practices, coupled with their own carpentry workshops, allowed for the development of bespoke solutions. This approach ensures that the interior scheme is not only aesthetically pleasing but also functional and tailored to the clients' needs.
Final Thoughts
This penthouse renovation by Holzrausch is a testament to the power of architectural transformation. It showcases how a building's history can be respected while still embracing contemporary design. The result is a unique and captivating living space, a roof garden in the heart of the city, offering its inhabitants a sense of calm and connection to nature. Personally, I find it inspiring to see how architecture can elevate our daily lives, and this project is a perfect example of that.
