Hopfenburg by Spine Architects
You cannot judge a book by its cover.
What looks a traditional building on the outside houses a modern interior that is hidden from view.
The ‘Hopfenburg’ was originally where hops was stored and beer was brewed at the beginning of the 20th century. The building has been altered constantly altered over time with the latest addition being the upper story which was added in 1991. The buildings facade is now being considered for a preservation order so it could not be changed in anyway.¬†The only changes that were allowed were for the frameless main door and the ground floor front window.
For the Hopfenburg to fit the needs of a modern office block it had to be completely gutted and redesigned. This has resulted in the merging of the old building form with a bespoke clinical interior. The underlying principle behind the building was to develop an undefined concept for the whole building whereby the materials, surface areas and colours would harmonise together.
The building with its special layout lends itself to a division in three areas. The ground floor is reserved as a gallery. The above two floors offer a rented space of about 100 sq. metres, and 200 sq. metres respectively. The floors 3 – 5 will offer space of about 280 to 300 sq. metres each.
The main element to this project is the bespoke furniture. These minimal, yet striking pieces, give the interior an identity as well as a functionality. The band of light above and below the pieces help to accentuate the form and make it float effortlessly around the building. The minimal forms also contrast the historical building itself.
The furniture continues throughout the building as one continuous piece housing toilets, a kitchen, storage and seating.
The detailing in the building is to a very high standard. No detail is too small. Take for instance the door handles, which have been been designed to keep the uninterrupted planes along the walls.
A continuos plane of light encircles the ceiling to add a curiosity to the curved form. It also guides the visitor into the building.
The one thing about this minimal design is would it have the same effect when the offices are being used? Would the daily clutter and office furniture change the space? It would be nice to see pictures of it occupied.
Architect design team:Spine Architects
Images: Oliver Heissner
