As part of the renovation of the old four-sided courtyard building Haus Radong, dating from 1895, an office unit was to be created in the dilapidated former pigsty in the southeast wing. Since the entire interior had to be protected due to its use as a stable and the resulting stresses on the existing walls, the architects planned an internal lining, the air space of which was filled with renovation plaster to prevent any efflorescence. No stresses were found in the upper section of the gable walls, so the opportunity was taken to preserve the original brickwork. This created a striking contrast between the existing structure and the new addition. For structural reasons, the entire wooden truss of the roof was replaced with a modern steel frame, within which the new functional levels appear to float. The exterior, however, remained untouched and clearly legible.
The ground floor houses the reception area, an exhibition space, and a meeting room that can be separated by sliding glass doors – as well as a restroom unit with an adjoining kitchenette and dining area. Stairs lead to the gallery levels with the workspaces. The main work level was intentionally separated from the exterior walls. Here, on both sides, corresponding to the building's grid pattern, are gratings of varying widths to allow light to penetrate through the skylights down to the ground floor. All levels and stairways are bordered by open shelving systems that also serve as fall protection.
The entire space, with its open levels, is heated by a full-surface underfloor heating system on the ground floor. Additional heating can be provided by split air conditioning units integrated into the exterior wall of the upper work level, as well as ceiling units above the gallery level. The system, powered by a heat pump, allows the split units to be switched to cooling mode in the summer, ensuring a comfortable indoor climate even at high outside temperatures.
Since the historic preservation regulations only applied to the facades, the building was completely gutted and renovated during the reconstruction. This allowed the interior to be designed free from any conventions, using modern materials. Workspaces were created for the architecture firm, thriving on the dynamic interplay between the old building fabric and the innovative new interior. As a result of these renovations, other parts of the courtyard are now being remodeled in several phases. Plans include a showroom with a studio and the development of additional apartments. The courtyard has also gained charm and style on the outside through minor improvements.
