Total renovation of a townhouse

The renovation plan for this 1920s townhouse emphasizes the height and authentic elements in a contemporary way. With use of existing elements versus solid spatial interventions, a playful plan was realized.

One of the interventions is the 2-story high folding facade in the rear facade. Along with a loft in the story floor, this creates lots of natural light on the north side of the home. The kitchen is located on this side.

Through wall penetrations between existing kitchen and dining room, a large living kitchen was created.
Above the kitchen island is a large loft. The desired additional living space is realized around the loft in the form of a study and playroom. The connection between the floors is made in the kitchen cabinet. The tall kitchen cabinet wall is deeper, a staircase is integrated and the floor-to-ceiling wall element consists of shelves that align with the staircase. The shelves are removable, making the composition of the wall element customizable. The custom furniture is an eye-catcher between the floors.

The design for a new space layout used existing elements. An example is the old light shaft which now opens into the completed bathroom. This ensuite bathroom is located in the middle of the house. In addition to providing daylight, the light shaft has also become a particularly tall shower.

The materialization of the bath and toilet rooms was also considered. An existing terrazzo floor and marble paneling was restored in the home’s entryway and hallway. A nod to these materials is made in the new bath spaces with a large-format tile from Mutina.

Photography: Nicole Rodenburg