Urban Jungle | Dreimeta

Hidden Beauty in an Urban Jungle

Renovations and additions to a bungalow in the center of Augsburg

Built in: 1969

Renovated in: 2013

Total area: approx. 3000 square feet

A hidden treasure in the middle of an urban jungle; a bungalow built in 1969 in a contemporary style surrounded on three sides by beautiful old trees in the middle of Augsburg. Great care was taken in the upgrading and renovation of this home.

The customer: a client with a good sense of design and a love for collectables and special handicrafts

The new owner of the bungalow is a designer. He collects original art and objects from around the world. Proof: The house has many surprising effects and details.

The task: connect the new style of living with the character of the original house

Presently, the bungalow has two floors where a third level was originally contemplated. The chance to build a third floor came when the bungalow was renovated, so that living and working on three floors would be possible. The goal was to incorporate contemporary design elements, modern technology, as well as collected pieces from around the world while remaining true to the original style of the house.

The idea: thinking like the original architect

What would the architect of the house have made with the opportunities from today? This was the thinking behind the renovation. However, the intent was not a nostalgic look to the past or fidelity to the initial design; rather, about carefully selected interventions that are true to the original architectural style.

The implementation: careful technical and stylistic adaptation

The bungalow is a part of a homogeneous area with 4 houses, where a change would normally disturb the aesthetic. The original architect had most likely considered a third floor, as the new 600 square foot addition constructed in timber perfectly completes the whole ensemble. The technical equipment was completely rebuilt from the ground up, so that the house meets the energy efficiency standards. All windows are new and in some cases were designed and built in custom dimensions. Additional windows, including some skylights in the ceiling, were also added.

A brick archway had to be removed so that the architectural lines would be clear, but apart form this change the spatial inventions were minimal.

A self-designed staircase climbs to the new 2nd floor, and the room under the roof with the living room, a den and a guestroom are now located on a generous rooftop terrace. The decor stylistically follows a clear design language, yet also has a few deliberate deviations.

The kitchen, doors, and cupboards in the house were designed by the owner, who also built the living room table and the detailed sliding doors by hand. The kitchen shelving was designed by Dieter Rams. Vintage Kilims and decorative pieces from India, Bali and Morocco bring excitement and charm to the otherwise somewhat severe 60´s architectural style.

The success: a perfect example of timeless urban living

The renovation shows how high quality architecture can continue to function optimally, even decades later. The strengths of the original design were successfully shown and further refined by the new additions. The house has retained its character and further developed its personality and capabilities.