Completed in late 2019, the Bouchégärten residential complex sits on what was once the Berlin Wall corridor in Alt-Treptow, at the intersection of Harzer and Bouchéstraße. The neighbourhood exemplifies Berlin's characteristic urban diversity, mixing 1930s apartment buildings with Art Nouveau residences, East German modernist structures, and post-reunification developments. The new complex introduces five verdant courtyard gardens: two fully enclosed courts, one open courtyard facing Mengerzeile, and two garden courts on the north façade. A testamentary restriction prevented construction of a traditional front building along Bouchéstraße, so instead the courtyard opens directly to the street—complete with a children's playground.

HKA Hastrich Keuthage Architekten designed Bouchégärten and oversaw its detailed planning. With investor Archigon and the architects united in their commitment to architectural excellence, the vision could be realised without compromise. The result is anything but monotonous: the façade is strikingly expressive, with balconies jutting forward at acute angles and stepping in sequence from floor to floor. Triangular screens between exterior spaces provide privacy while adding visual dynamism to the residential towers. Throughout the project, the architects employed prefabricated building components that arrive ready for direct installation—no on-site modifications needed. This industrial precision enables both meticulous execution and the realisation of bold, unconventional architectural forms.

All 276 apartments—ranging from 48 to 120 m²—offer maximum flexibility in floor plan customisation. Only the bathroom utility cores are fixed; residents decide whether to create an open-plan loft or define distinct rooms. Every unit features finished plaster walls and oak parquet flooring. Floor-to-ceiling windows flood the living spaces with natural light and panoramic views. This minimalist aesthetic carries through the building's interior: exposed concrete and metal railings define the stairwells. The high-quality construction achieves KfW 55 energy efficiency certification.

www.hka-architekten.de

Photography Credits:

Karsten Thielker
www.karstenthielker.photoshelter.com