Following a straightforward yet compelling concept, a single-family home emerged in Französisch Buchholz, in Berlin's northern districts. Its design language embodies the modern white villa—clean lines, geometric forms, the hallmarks of contemporary residential architecture. The neighbourhood's name, drawn from Pankow's "Französisch Buchholz," may surprise even long-time Berliners. It traces back to 17th-century Huguenot settlers who fled religious persecution in France. Today, the district remains characterised by detached homes and family estates.

During urban densification, a large parcel was subdivided to create room for this new residence. The generously proportioned 1,300 m² site even accommodates a swimming pool nestled in the rear garden. Like its neighbors, this house is unique—a true original among the predominantly gabled-roof homes lining the street. Berlin-based Deeken Architects positioned their design as a singular statement on a tranquil side street, thoughtfully preserving the mature trees along the street frontage. The two-story structure with double garage sits on a full basement. The ground floor—entirely barrier-free—houses the living and dining areas plus a study and guest suite with bath, enabling comfortable aging-in-place without stairs. Bedrooms with en-suite baths occupy the upper level. Generous aluminum sliding doors open the living spaces seamlessly to the garden and expansive terrace, while an additional terrace extends from the upstairs bedrooms. Street-facing, the ground floor presents a composed facade of metal panels—the garage discretely integrated behind them. Above this sits a lighter element, softly rendered and fully glazed toward the western garden. With the sliding glass doors open, unobstructed access flows directly into the landscape. From the pool looking back, the white-framed upper "box" appears to float effortlessly on a delicate glass base. External roller shades manage summer heat gain on both levels. Oak parquet runs throughout the floors and stairs, while a fireplace enriches the atmosphere and supplements the heating system. Underfloor heating—powered by a geothermal brine/water heat pump—warms the rooms in winter and cools them in summer. Electricity comes from photovoltaic panels installed on the flat roof. A mechanical ventilation system with heat recovery completes the envelope. Excellent insulation and triple-glazed windows achieve KfW55 efficiency-house certification. From the street, the home appears restrained and cohesive—slender floor-to-ceiling metal panels paired with upper-floor windows in matching proportions create quiet elegance. The project was selected for consideration for the 2023 Berlin Architecture Prize.

www.deeken-architekten.de

Photography:
Jens Passoth
www.passoth.de

(Published in CUBE Berlin 01|25)