Nestled in prime position on Waiblingen's market square, this half-timbered gem—meticulously restored by Coast Architects—carries centuries of history. The building has weathered two devastating city fires, each time rising again from its own ashes. For over 250 years, it housed a pharmacy bearing the name "Untere Apotheke" since 1760. Today, through careful attention to historical detail and a forward-thinking adaptive reuse strategy, this listed structure enters a vibrant new chapter. The renovation honors its past while meeting contemporary standards: a heat pump system, integrated fire safety measures, and a sophisticated ventilation ceiling with integrated grease management on the ground floor all work seamlessly behind the scenes. The ground floor now hosts the "Untere Apotheke" restaurant, while upper levels blend office and residential spaces. The former storage attic has been transformed into living quarters, and the half-timbered facade has been thoughtfully reconstructed with natural stone mullions faithful to its original design.

The restaurant redesign deserved—and received—special care, marrying historical authenticity with sophisticated contemporary interiors. Coast Architects developed the concept in close partnership with restaurateur Pablo Fernandez. The open kitchen stands as the centerpiece, rich with historical resonance. Strategically placed viewing windows and an open layout of kitchen and bar allow diners to witness the craft of elevated cuisine unfold before them. Architect Zlatko Antolovic articulates the vision: "Where pharmacists once visibly prepared remedies for their patrons across centuries, Pablo Fernandez and Max Rebhorn now stand with their team, crafting culinary experiences from home-grown herbs and local ingredients—remedies for both body and soul." A black suspended ceiling defines the bar zone while creating visual dialogue with the open kitchen. Exposed timber framing separates the main dining room from a private dining area, serving as a legible echo of the pharmacy's original floor plan. Black wall paneling similarly references authentic historical details. A living green wall of plants winds through the space—a dynamic accent that plays beautifully against the darker design elements, directly inspired by the building's pharmaceutical heritage. During renovation, a graceful arched doorway connecting interior to terrace was carefully restored. Warm, carefully orchestrated colors and seamless flooring create the perfect stage for these historical elements, culminating in an atmosphere of genuine warmth and welcome.

www.coastoffice.de

Photography:
David Franck
www.davidfranck.de

(Published in CUBE Stuttgart 04|24)