Old buildings never cease to surprise us—beneath layers of pragmatic modifications lie hidden treasures waiting to be discovered. A comprehensive renovation brings them back into view, yet revealing their true charm and period authenticity demands both expertise and a delicate touch. Such was the case with this apartment in a heritage-protected residential building from 1927.

In restoring this four-room apartment, Studio Cross Scale's architects focused on recovering its distinctive spatial character and restoring its visual and functional integrity. Particular care went to the wooden details—baseboards, wall panelling, and coffered doors—each piece meticulously stripped of accumulated layers, repaired where needed, sanded smooth, and thoughtfully restored with contemporary interventions where elements were missing. This painstaking approach preserves both the aesthetic quality and longevity of these architectural features. The apartment's original terrazzo floor, discovered intact beneath multiple layers in the bathroom, presented another welcome find ready for restoration. The architects kept the palette restrained—primarily white and understated tones—allowing premium materials to complement rather than compete with the apartment's historical character. Soft lime-green linoleum grounds the living and sleeping areas, while contemporary bathroom fixtures and kitchen cabinetry respect the dialogue between old and new, stepping back gracefully to let the period details speak.

www.studiocrossscale.com

Photography:
Studio Cross Scale

(Published in CUBE Stuttgart 04|24)