GRAFT refurbishes the former post office complex in Berlin with a parametric brick skin

Located in Berlin’s Schöneberg district, the former post office complex was built from 1901 to 1903, spread over approximately 11,700 square metres. Bought over by property developer, Trockland in 2014, the site, since, has been undergoing constant development, turning it into a lively mixed-use neighbourhood.

Latest in the series of additions to the former post office complex are two brick-clad mixed-use buildings, rounding off the development. Referred to as ‘Bricks’ – a node to its extensive brick façade — the complex lies in one of the busiest residential districts in the city.

The former heritage structure has been restored and upgraded by GRAFT while maintaining its original commercial character. Boasting a distinguished individual character, the historical brick buildings have been adapted to host offices and an international school of management along with various commercial enterprises – bringing a diverse user group within the complex.

With the latest addition, GRAFT ensures that several inner courtyards that crisscross the complex are made open to the public. This is expertly expressed by the studio through a sinuous opening in the larger L-shaped building, from the Hauptstrasse into the internal courtyards. The geometry combines parametric software with expert craftsmanship, while the brick facades blend the structure with the historical half. 

 

Hosting an organic food supermarket and office space on the ground floor, the development retains its original commercial character. The inner courtyards are now part of the city’s pedestrian network — similar to the preciously underutilised rooftops, which are now renovated for commercial purposes and serve to contribute to the identity of the Berlin district.

The larger L-shaped building is finished with large windows protruding from the brick façade of its apartments above. The smaller structure on the opposite end fronting Belziger Street is finished with an undulating brick façade of balcony parapet.

Brick is an essential element here that distinguishes and yet harmoniously combines the present with the past. It was important for the architects to acknowledge the site’s past — to restore the complex collective memory within the neighbourhood while leaving their own mark by artfully combining history with latest building technology.

 

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