The Blue Cube
Two apartments merged into one: a custom-designed home for a passionate art collector
In Hamburg's Winterhude district, a private client purchased two adjoining apartments on the same floor with a vision: to unite them into one. Architect Bastian Bechtloff transformed this into a custom home for the entire family—and, equally important, a gallery space worthy of the client's remarkable art collection.
The design concept centers on an open floor plan with fluid room transitions inspired by American lofts. A striking dark blue cube clad in brushed oak commands attention and serves as the architectural anchor of the now 240 m² residence. The cube nearly encloses the building's central stairwell while opening gracefully on one side to welcome residents. Inside, the cube's articulated walls transform into gallery surfaces on two sides, perfectly framing the client's art collection. Beyond their aesthetic role, these walls provide generous storage solutions and even conceal a guest bathroom. Deliberately restrained white walls and light oak flooring allow the saturated blue cube to take center stage. Continuous ceiling-mounted lighting tracks with adjustable spotlights encircle the cube, illuminating the spaces, highlighting the artwork, and reinforcing the flowing spatial sequence. All shared family areas are generously proportioned. From the foyer-inspired entrance, guests and residents flow directly into the welcoming dining zone with its expansive table and full-height windows. The kitchen counters feature a sculptural gesture—a custom-designed, artistically tapered cantilever that extends 1.20 meters into the space, its tapering profile evoking the contours of a whale's head. Glass partitions throughout resemble industrial factory windows, creating dynamic sightlines while maintaining the desired openness.
Private retreats for children and parents offer a welcome contrast. The master bedroom cleverly connects to an ensuite bathroom tucked discreetly behind wardrobe doors. Warm wood tones, a soaking tub, and generous shower create an intimate sanctuary. This interplay of open and enclosed spaces delivers living flexibility for the entire family—intimate moments, inspiring encounters with art, or spontaneous races through the rooms.
Photography Credits:
Jakob Boerner
www.jakobboerner.com
(Published in CUBE Hamburg 03|23)
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