With: Praeger Richter Architekten

‘Ausbauhaus Neukoelln’ is a building group project, with 24 units for living and working. It is situated on a 1400m2 corner site in Berlin-Neukölln, which borders the southern part of the S-Bahn’s Ring line. The “Ausbauhaus-concept” makes it possible to offer spacious living options for the prices of social housing (KG 300+400 from 1.020 €/m2, depending on the finished interior standard). The special feature is the fact that the owner/client is given the choice between different levels of finish, such as “standard loft”, “standard apartment” or “take-over shell for self-finishing”. Thus the ‘Ausbauhaus’ can be developed in connection with economic factors, to the desired level of detail and budget. The building has a north-south orientation. All units are distinguished by a ceiling height of 3 metres and a spacious south-facing loggia, which extends the living space over its full length to the exterior space. Keeping in line with the concept of the ‘Ausbauhaus’, the structural concept is based on a simple shelving system. This system enables economic and time-saving objectives to be realised before construction begins. Through the disconnection of floor plan and supporting structure — plus the flexible perforated façade — various floor plan variations can be implemented without having to change the overall structure of the building. A subsequent conversion of the units remains as easy as possible — for example, responding to changed living conditions.